Tocilizumab and PMX-DHP have efficacy for severe COVID-19 pneumonia

Abstract

In coronavirus disease 2019 pneumonia, a cytokine storm resulting from an excessive inflammatory response to the viral infection is thought to play a role in the exacerbation of the pneumonia and its prognosis. Favipiravir and ciclesonide are not effective in the inhibition of the cytokine storm. In this case report, we describe the experience of tocilizumab administration and polymyxin B immobilized fiber direct hemoperfusion in severe coronavirus disease 2019 pneumonia patient. A 52-year-old man presented with fever and dyspnea and was diagnosed with coronavirus disease 2019 pneumonia based on a polymerase chain reaction test. Mechanical ventilation and favipiravir administration were started for respiratory failure. However, favipiravir could not be continued due to hepatic dysfunction. Consequently, tocilizumab was administered, and continuous hemodiafiltration and endotoxin adsorption therapy (polymyxin B immobilized fiber direct hemoperfusion) were performed for acute renal failure. C-reactive protein decreased from 44 to 3.52 mg/dL, and the patient’s respiratory status improved over time, enabling mechanical ventilation to be withdrawn. This case indicates that adding polymyxin B immobilized fiber direct hemoperfusion to tocilizumab administration may further increase efficacy in coronavirus disease 2019 treatment; however, more case–control studies are needed.