haemolytic uraemic syndrome

Question 1

when does HUS occur

Answer 1

when there is thrombosis in small blood vessels throughout body

usually triggered by a bacterial toxin called the shiga toxin

Question 2

HUS classic triad

Answer 2

haemolytic anaemia
AKI
low platelet count

Question 3

pathophysiology of HYS

Answer 3

formation of blood clots consumes platelets –> thrombocytopenia

blood clots break up RBCs as they pass –> haemolytic anaemia

blood flow through kidney affected by the clots and damaged RBCs –> AKI

Question 4

most common cause HUS

Answer 4

toxin produced by e.coli 0157 called shiga toxin

shigella also produces this toxin

Question 5

what can increase risk of developing HUS

Answer 5

using antibiotics and anti-motility meds to treat gastroenteritis

Question 6

usual clinical story

Answer 6

e.coli causes breif gastroenteritis often w bloody diarrhoea

~5 days after, person will start displaying HUS symptoms

Question 7

symptoms of HUS

Answer 7

reduced urine output 
haematuria or dark brown urine
abdo pain 
lethargy/irritability 
confusion 
htn 
bruising

Question 8

management of HUS

Answer 8

condition is limiting and Mx is supportive

anti-htn
blood transfusion
dialysis