A case of testicular tumor and respiratory failure caused by choriocarcinoma syndrome managed through modified chemotherapy and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation

Introduction

Choriocarcinoma syndrome with multiple lung metastases has a poor prognosis and causes respiratory failure due to alveolar hemorrhage. We encountered a case where the introduction of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation effectively sustained oxygenation until chemotherapy took effect on lung metastases of testicular tumors.

Case presentation

A 35-year-old man with dyspnea was referred to our hospital. He showed left testicular tumor with multiple lung metastases. Serum human chorionic gonadotropin level was also elevated. Reduced chemotherapy was initiated and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation was administered because of low oxygen levels on the fourth day. Chemotherapy successfully reduced the size of the lung masses, and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation was discontinued. Respiratory status improved substantially, but the patient died of brain metastases 4 months later.

Conclusion

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation may be a useful option for managing respiratory failure resulting from choriocarcinoma syndrome until the respiratory condition is improved by chemotherapy for testicular tumors.