Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis Secondary to Acute Human Immunodeficiency Virus and COVID-19

Abstract

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), characterized by acute and progressive hyperinflammation, is a rare syndrome documented in a limited number of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) cases. While severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) can provoke extensive immune activation and systemic inflammation, individuals with HIV, susceptible to immune dysregulation, are at heightened risk of severe complications from SARS-CoV-2. We report a case of a 24-year-old male with no significant medical history presenting with fever, weight loss, respiratory symptoms, and acute renal failure. Initial diagnosis revealed HIV with a CD4 count < 20 and concurrent COVID-19 infection leading to development of HLH. Despite aggressive management including antiretroviral therapy (ART), dexamethasone and supportive care, the patient deteriorated rapidly, leading to multiorgan failure. Coinfection with HIV and SARS-CoV-2 presents unique challenges, especially when complicated by secondary conditions such as HLH, which remains a diagnostic and therapeutic dilemma. Prompt recognition and aggressive management are crucial, necessitating a high index of suspicion and comprehensive evaluation including bone marrow biopsy to improve diagnostic accuracy and guide therapeutic interventions in such complex scenarios.

J Med Cases. 2024;15(9):222-226
doi: https://doi.org/10.14740/jmc4226