Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome
Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome Causes
HUS can be caused by HIV, Lupus erythematosus, malignant hypertension and side effects of cancer chemotherapy.
Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome Definition
Hemolytic-uremic syndrome (HUS), is an illness characterized by acute renal failure, low platelet count, and microangiopathic hemolytic anemia.
Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome Diagnosis
Different laboratory testings are done to diagnose HUS due to its similarities to thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP). In TTP however, neurological symptoms are present.
Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome Symptoms and Signs
Among the signs of Hus include bloody diarrhea due to E.coli O157:H7 that produces verotoxin. Veratoxins initiates inflammatory reaction in the rectal area through the bloodstream. Low red blood cell count is also evident since the toxins attack the thrombocytes present in the blood.
Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome Treatment
The disease is treated by dialysis and platelet transfusion to replace the lost thrombocytes. In severe cases, plasmapheresis is performed.