Haemolytic Uraemic Syndrome Flashcards
1
Q
What is haemolytic uraemic syndrome?
A
Thrombosis in small blood vessels throughout the body
2
Q
What triggers HUS?
A
Shiga toxin
3
Q
What produces the shiga toxin?
A
E.coli
Shigella
4
Q
What is the triad of HUS?
A
Haemolytic anaemia
AKI
Thrombocytopenia
5
Q
What is the pathophysiology of HUS?
A
Formation of blood clots - consumes platelets = thrombocytopenia
Blood clots -> tear up RBCs = haemolytic anaemia
Blood flow to kidneys is reduced = AKI
6
Q
What are features of HUS?
A
Bloody diarrhoea
Followed by
- reduced urine output
- haematuria
- abdo pain
- bruising
- confusion
- HTN
7
Q
How is suspected HUS investigated?
A
FBC
U&Es
Stool cultures
8
Q
How is HUS managed?
A
Anti-hypertensives
Blood transfusions
Dialysis
