Hemolytic uremic syndrome

Hemolytic uremic syndrome
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Hemolytic anemia, acute kidney failure, thrombocytopenia
Complications	Chronic kidney disease, hypertension, neurological complications
Onset	Sudden
Duration	Variable
Types	N/A
Causes	Infection, genetic mutations, medications
Risks	Young children, elderly, immunocompromised individuals
Diagnosis	Blood tests, urinalysis, kidney biopsy
Differential diagnosis	N/A
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Supportive care, dialysis, plasma exchange
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Variable
Frequency	Rare
Deaths	N/A

Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) is a condition characterized by the triad of hemolytic anemia, acute kidney failure (uremia), and thrombocytopenia. It predominantly affects children and can lead to serious complications if not treated promptly.

Causes

HUS is most commonly caused by infection with Escherichia coli bacteria, particularly the Shiga toxin-producing strain E. coli O157:H7. Other causes include genetic mutations, certain medications, and other infections.

Symptoms

The symptoms of HUS can include:

• Pallor due to anemia
• Fatigue
• Irritability
• Decreased urination
• Swelling
• High blood pressure
• Bruising or bleeding

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of HUS involves a combination of:

• Blood tests to check for anemia, low platelet count, and kidney function
• Urinalysis to detect blood or protein in the urine
• Kidney biopsy in some cases to assess kidney damage

Treatment

Treatment for HUS focuses on supportive care, which may include:

• Intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration
• Blood transfusions for severe anemia
• Dialysis if kidney function is severely impaired
• Plasma exchange in certain cases

Prognosis

The prognosis for HUS varies depending on the severity of the condition and the promptness of treatment. While many children recover fully, some may develop long-term complications such as chronic kidney disease or hypertension.

Prevention

Preventive measures include:

• Proper food handling and cooking to avoid E. coli infection
• Good hygiene practices
• Avoiding unpasteurized dairy products

See also

• Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura
• Chronic kidney disease
• Escherichia coli

External links

• CDC - E. coli O157:H7
• Kidney.org - Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome