Hemolytic-Uremic Syndrome

Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS) is a serious disease that affects the kidneys and blood clotting system. Hemolytic-uremic syndrome is characterized by the triad of microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and acute renal failure. It is a rare disease but is more common in children, especially those less than five years of age, than in adults. In most cases, HUS is caused by infection with the bacteria E. coli O157:H7.

HUS arises after an infection of the digestive system by Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacterium, which is create in foods like meat, dairy products, and juice when they are infected. Some people have contracted HUS after swimming in pools or lakes contaminated with feces.

Other symptoms of Hemolytic-uremic syndrome include lack of energy (lethargy), and/or excretion of abnormally diminished amounts of urine. Treatment is generally supportive with dialysis as needed. Platelet transfusion may actually worsen outcome. Limiting protein in the child’s diet and treating blood pressure with a medicine from a class of drugs called angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, usually called ACE inhibitors, helps delay or prevent the onset of permanent kidney failure.

In severe cases or when there is diagnostic uncertainty between HUS and TTP, plasmapheresis is the treatment of choice. If you're bleeding or bruising easily, platelet transfusions can help your blood to clot. Like red blood cell transfusions, platelet transfusions are given through an IV needle. Simple precautions such as washing and cooking foods adequately and avoiding unclean swimming areas can help prevent infections that could lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome, especially for children and older adults.