HUS

Question 1

what is it caused by?

Answer 1

thrombosis of the small blood vessels in the body

Question 2

Aetiology?

Answer 2

SHIGA TOXIN

• main cause of this= E.Coli 0157
• but can also be shigella

Question 3

Clinical picture

Answer 3

triad of:

• microangiopathic haemolytic anaemia
• thrombocytopenia
• AKI

Question 4

Presentation?

Answer 4

gastroenteritis, which usually presents w bloody diarrhoea followed after 5 days by symptoms of HUS:

• reduced urine output
• dark brown urine / haematuria
• abdominal pain
• confusion
• lethargy
• Hypertension
• bruising

Question 5

Ix?

Answer 5

Bloods (renal profile + FBC) + Blood film

Question 6

Mx?

Answer 6

• medical emergency
• supportive management
  
  • fluids
  • dialysis
  • blood transfusion

NO PLATELETS - worsens renal and neuro problems

Question 7

what is it important NOT to give in the initial presentation of gastroenteritis?

Answer 7

Abx / anti-motility agents to treat gastroenteritis as they can trigger HUS

Question 8

difference between HUS and TTP?

Answer 8

very similar diseases

TTP has a classic pentad

• TTP predominantly neuro symptoms +/- AKI whereas HUS predominantly renal symptoms with no or minimal neuro involvement