Abstract
We recently treated a case of heatstroke with prolonged consciousness disorder and multiple organ failure. The patient was a 14-year-old boy. During soccer training in a hot environment, he suddenly became dyspneic and comatose with a rectal temperature of 40.8°C. Soon after admission, he developed multiple organ failure (MOF) (renal failure, hepatic failure and disseminated intravascular coagulation). His MOF was managed with various blood purification techniques (continuous veno-venous hemofiltration, hemodialysis and plasma exchange). Although his consciousness disorder persisted for a month, he recovered without sequelae. Marked elevations of body temperature can result in tissue damage and the dangerous syndrome of heatstroke. Immediate elimination of hyperpyrexia and support of vital organ systems are the two principal therapeutic objectives. Cooling techniques using blood purification methods are discussed.
