Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) is a condition that arises from the abnormal premature destruction of red blood cells. When this procedure begins, the harmed red cell begin to block the filtering system in the kidneys, which may eventually cause the deadly kidney failure related to hemolytic uremic syndrome.
The majority of cases of hemolytic uremic syndrome develop in children after 2-15 days of diarrhea– typically bloody — due to infection with a particular stress of Escherichia coli (E. coli). Adults also may establish hemolytic uremic syndrome after an E. coli infection, however the cause likewise might be particular medications, other types of infections, pregnancy or it might be unidentified.
Though hemolytic uremic syndrome is a major condition, getting timely and suitable treatment causes a complete recovery for many people– particularly children.
Bloody Diarrhea and Symptoms of Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome
Symptoms and signs of hemolytic uremic syndrome might include:
- Bloody diarrhea
- Throwing up
- Abdominal pain
- Pale complexion
- Fatigue and irritation
- Fever, normally not high and may not exist at all
- Blood in the urine
- Little, unexplained swellings or bleeding from the nose and mouth
- Decreased urination or blood in the urine
- Swelling of the face, hands, feet or whole body
- Confusion
Sometimes neurological signs, such as seizures, establish too.
When to see a medical professional
Call your physician immediately if you or your child experiences unexplained bruises, bloody diarrhea, uncommon bleeding, inflamed limbs, extreme fatigue or reduced urine output after several days of diarrhea. Look for emergency care if you or your child doesn’t urinate for 12 hours or more.
Treatments for Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS)
Hemolytic uremic syndrome with bloody diarrhea requires treatment in the health center. To alleviate instant signs and symptoms and prevent further problems, hemolytic uremic syndrome treatment may include:
- Fluid replacement. Lost fluid and electrolytes need to be carefully replaced because the kidneys aren’t removing fluids and waste as efficiently as typical.
- Red blood cell transfusions. If you don’t have adequate red blood cells, you may feel cooled, tired out and short of breath. You may have a rapid heart rate, yellow skin and dark urine. Red cell transfusions, provided through an intravenous (IV) needle, might assist reverse these signs and symptoms.
- Platelet transfusions. If you’re bleeding or bruising quickly, platelet transfusions can assist your embolism more usually. Like red blood cell transfusions, platelet transfusions are offered through an IV needle.
- Plasma exchange. Plasma is the part of blood that supports the blood circulation of blood cells and platelets. Sometimes a machine is used to clear the blood of its own plasma and replace it with fresh or frozen donor plasma. This process is called plasmapheresis.
- Kidney dialysis. In some cases dialysis is needed to filter waste and excess fluid from the blood. Dialysis is normally a short-term treatment till the kidneys start operating properly again. If the kidney damage is significant, nevertheless, long-term kidney failure– needing long-term dialysis or a kidney transplant– is possible.
In spite of the seriousness of the condition, proper treatment leads to a full recovery for the majority of people with hemolytic uremic syndrome– particularly young children.
In those who have some lasting kidney damage, following a low-protein diet and taking the blood pressure lowering medications known as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors if blood pressure is high may prevent or postpone additional kidney damage.
A less typical type of hemolytic uremic syndrome called irregular hemolytic uremic syndrome also is treated with plasma exchange. The Fda has actually authorized the use of a medication called eculizumab (Soliris) for the treatment of irregular hemolytic uremic syndrome. Eculizumab is a type of medication referred to as a monoclonal antibody. It avoids the ongoing destruction of healthy cells. Nevertheless, this medication has a considerable risk of major infection. If possible, you or your child may get the meningococcal vaccine prior to receiving this medication.
