Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Support in Refractory Multi-organ Failure by 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine Intoxication (“Ecstasy”)

Abstract

The substance known as 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) that is commonly named ecstasy is a designer drug used for recreation. The intoxication for MDMA could generate hyperthermia, hepatotoxicity, acute renal failure, cardiovascular toxicity, hyponatremia, serotonin syndrome, coma, and, eventually could lead to, death. There is no antidote available, that is why the treatment is symptomatic and of advanced vital support until the resolution of the case. A case is presented of an adult with multi-organ failure secondary to intoxication for MDMA in whom it was decided to initiate support of oxygenation with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation as a bridge to recovery, with good results.