Ruxolitinib in conjunction with the HLH-94 protocol for Epstein-Barr virus-related hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis in the intensive care unit: A case report

RATIONALE: The HLH-94 protocol is a standard induction treatment for hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis. However, about 30% of patients may not respond. Ruxolitinib has been clinically proven to be an effective treatment for hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH). PATIENT CONCERNS: A previously healthy 14-year-old girl presented to the local hospital with a 4-day history of persistent fever and sore throat. DIAGNOSIS: Clinical and laboratory tests revealed fever >38.5°C, hepatosplenomegaly, pancytopenia, hypertriglyceridemia, hypofibrinogenemia, hyperferritinemia, and an elevated interleukin-2 receptor level. INTERVENTION: This patient was treated with ruxolitinib and the HLH-94 protocol. OUTCOMES: The patient's clinical and some laboratory indices improved. Unfortunately, vital signs such as respiratory function and consciousness did not improve. LESSONS: This case report highlights the effect of using ruxolitinib in conjunction with the HLH-94 protocol. However, safety evaluation of this regimen was not performed because critically ill patient died too fast.