Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome
(HUS)
Benjamin Wedro, MD, FACEP, FAAEM
Dr. Ben Wedro practices emergency medicine at Gundersen Clinic, a regional trauma center in La Crosse, Wisconsin. His background includes undergraduate and medical studies at the University of Alberta, a Family Practice internship at Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario and residency training in Emergency Medicine at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center.
Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD
Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.
- Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) facts
- What is a "syndrome?"
- What is hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS)?
- What causes hemolytic uremic syndrome?
- What are the signs and symptoms of hemolytic uremic syndrome?
- How is hemolytic uremic syndrome diagnosed?
- What is the treatment for hemolytic uremic syndrome?
- What is the prognosis of hemolytic uremic syndrome?
- How can hemolytic uremic syndrome be prevented?
- Find a local Nephrologist in your town
Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) facts
- Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) is a condition characterized by destruction of red blood cells and kidney failure.
- HUS often follows a digestive infection caused by E. coli OH157:H7, although there are other causes.
- Symptoms of HUS include vomiting and diarrhea (often bloody), weakness, lethargy, and bruising (purpura). These symptoms are due to a combination of dehydration, anemia and uremia (the inability of the kidneys to clear waste products from the body).
- Diagnosis of HUS is made by a combination of history, physical exam, and abnormal blood tests. There is no one test that makes the diagnosis of hemolytic uremic syndrome.
- Treatment of HUS is supportive with intravenous fluids. Anemia may require blood transfusion and temporary dialysis may be necessary.
- Children tend to recover from HUS, while adults with HUS may fare less well.
Next: What is a "syndrome?"
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