Complications

Complication
Timeframe
Likelihood
short term
high

Mortality associated with hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome (HCPS) is approximately 20% to 50%, with death resulting from cardiogenic shock and cardiac arrhythmias.[10][13]​​​​[57]​​ There do not seem to be any effective early interventions.

Intensive care unit care with careful fluid management and inotropic support is essential, although not definitively shown to alter mortality.

short term
low

Disseminated intravascular coagulation is possible in severe cases, but is quite uncommon.

long term
low

There have been reports of residual cognitive defects possibly related to previous hypoxemia.[10][58]

long term
low

In one small series of 30 patients, 53% of survivors at a mean follow-up of 7.4 months had evidence of chronic kidney disease.[97]

Chronic kidney disease

variable
low

Follow-up data on survivors are limited. Some patients experience residual pulmonary defects related to a decrease in small airway flow and a decrease in oxygen diffusing capacity. Fatigue and shortness of breath is a complaint.[10][58] Pulmonary dysfunction may persist for up to 1 year with subsequent resolution.[95]

variable
low

May include postviral encephalitis (reported with Andes virus [ANDV]), acute disseminated encephalomyelitis, and transverse myelitis. Seizures are uncommon. Encephalopathy may occur due to shock or hypoxia. Intracranial hemorrhage, meningoencephalitis, and visual symptoms are rare.[96]

Use of this content is subject to our disclaimer