Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation after intravenous injection of paraffin oil

We present a rare cause of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) due to an accidental intravascular injection of paraffin oil. While there is no specific therapy, we decided to support the patient with veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V-V ECMO) to allow the ARDS to resolve. A previously healthy 30-year-old man was admitted to the Emergency Department with acute onset respiratory distress following an injection with paraffin oil for cosmetic purposes. In 36 hours, the patient developed severe ARDS and respiratory support with V-V ECMO was initiated. The patient was successfully weaned from ECMO on day 11 and was discharged from hospital in full recovery.