Haemolytic-uremic syndrome

Haemolytic-uremic syndrome (HUS) is a group of blood disorders characterized by low red blood cells, acute kidney failure, and low platelets. Initially, it often presents with blood in the urine, pale skin, fever, fatigue, and irritability. As the condition progresses, it can lead to the development of symptoms associated with kidney failure, such as decreased urine output and swelling.

Causes[edit | edit source]

HUS is typically caused by infection with certain strains of Escherichia coli (E. coli), specifically those producing Shiga toxin (STEC-HUS). Other causes include genetic mutations (atypical HUS or aHUS), certain medications, and other medical conditions.

Pathophysiology[edit | edit source]

The pathogenesis of HUS involves the destruction of red blood cells, damage to the walls of blood vessels, and the formation of clots in the small blood vessels of the kidneys. This leads to a decrease in red blood cells (hemolytic anemia), damage to kidney cells, and low platelet count due to their consumption in clots.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of HUS involves a combination of clinical presentation and laboratory tests. These tests may include complete blood count (CBC), kidney function tests, stool culture for E. coli O157:H7 or other Shiga toxin-producing bacteria, and tests for Shiga toxin in the stool.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for HUS is primarily supportive, including hydration, blood transfusions, and kidney dialysis if necessary. In cases of atypical HUS, medications that block the complement system, such as eculizumab, may be used.

Prevention[edit | edit source]

Preventive measures focus on avoiding the sources of infection, such as contaminated food and water. Proper food handling and good hygiene practices are crucial in preventing the spread of bacteria that can cause HUS.

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

The prognosis for HUS varies. Most children with typical HUS recover with appropriate treatment, but some may develop chronic kidney disease or other long-term complications. The prognosis for atypical HUS can be more severe, often requiring long-term treatment to manage the disease.

Health science - Medicine - Nephrology - edit
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Lupus nephritis \| Post-infectious glomerulonephritis \| Minimal change disease \| Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis \| Diabetic nephropathy
Diseases of the proximal convoluted tubules
Fanconi syndrome (Type II renal tubular acidosis) \| renal cell carcinoma
Diseases of the distal convoluted tubules
pseudohypoaldosteronism (Type IV renal tubular acidosis)
Diseases of the collecting duct
Type I renal tubular acidosis
Tumours of the kidney
renal cell carcinoma \| Wilms' tumour (children)
Diseases of the renal vasculature
renal artery stenosis \| vasculitis \| atheroembolic disease
Tubulointerstitial diseases of the kidney
Drug-induced interstitial nephritis \| Obstructive nephropathy \| Radiation nephritis \| Reflux nephropathy \| Sarcoidosis
Genetic diseases of the kidney/syndromes associated with kidney dysfunction
Alport syndrome \| Polycystic kidney disease \| Wilms' tumour (children) von Hippel-Lindau syndrome \| Hereditary papillary renal carcinoma \| Birt-Hogg-Dube syndrome \| Hereditary renal carcinoma
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