Effects of the elective introduction of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation on outcomes in pediatric myocarditis cases.

Aim: To investigate the necessary indicators to diagnose pediatric myocarditis and choose appropriate candidates for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation therapy. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of children aged <16 years of age who were diagnosed with myocarditis and admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit in a Japanese children's hospital from 2002 to 2013. We collected demographic data and symptoms and signs during the entire clinical course, investigated the survival and neurological outcomes, and identified the predictors of death. Results: Twenty-nine patients (median age, 5 years) met the inclusion criteria. Fever and gastrointestinal symptoms occurred in approximately 80% of the patients as initial symptoms and central nervous system symptoms were the most frequent symptom on emergency presentation (41%). Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation was administered to 16 patients; of these, five died. Of the 24 surviving patients, 23 achieved favorable neurological outcomes. Four of eight patients died following cardiopulmonary resuscitation-triggered extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, and one of eight died following elective extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Multivariate analysis using stepwise logistic regression analysis revealed creatinine level as an independent predictor of death. Conclusion: It is important to consider myocarditis when evaluating children with gastrointestinal or central nervous system symptoms. The elective introduction of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation before the completion of end-organ dysfunction has a positive effect on outcomes in pediatric myocarditis cases. Transfer to an institution that can initiate extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support should be promptly considered when managing pediatric myocarditis.