Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS) is a serious condition characterized by the destruction of red blood cells, leading to kidney failure. It often follows an infection in the digestive system, particularly by Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria.
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HUS is most commonly caused by Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC), particularly the O157:H7 strain.
Symptoms of HUS include bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting, decreased urination, and fatigue.
It predominantly affects children under the age of 5 years but can also occur in adults.
The primary mechanism involves Shiga toxins that damage endothelial cells in small blood vessels, leading to hemolysis and renal failure.
Diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms and laboratory findings such as low platelet count, elevated serum creatinine, and fragmented red blood cells on a blood smear.
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Related terms
Shiga Toxin: A toxin produced by certain strains of E. coli that can cause severe illness including HUS.
Escherichia coli (E. coli): A type of bacteria commonly found in the intestines; some strains can cause foodborne illness.
Thrombocytopenia: A condition characterized by an abnormally low number of platelets in the blood, often observed in HUS patients.