High-frequency oscillatory ventilation in an infant with cystic fibrosis and bronchiolitis

Infants with cystic fibrosis (CF) may develop severe respiratory compromise related to viral lower respiratory tract infections due to impaired mucous clearance and plugging of small airways. Consequently air trapping may lead to lung hyperinflation, impaired gas exchange, and respiratory failure. We describe the case of an infant with newly diagnosed CF who developed severe hypercarbic respiratory failure in the setting of viral bronchiolitis successfully treated with high-frequency oscillatory ventilation (HFOV).