Why does Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome occur?
In HUS, the immune system attacks blood cells. As a result, the red blood cell count declines, the platelet count falls, and the kidneys are damaged.(5)
HUS in Infants
Escherichia coli (E. coli) is the primary underlying cause of HUS in minors. E. coli exists in a variety of harmless forms. The E coli bacteria are typically discovered in the intestines of healthy humans and animals. In certain instances, however, specific strains of E. coli that are transmitted through food can induce infections that may result in HUS. Additionally, E. coli can be found in feces-contaminated water.
The most prevalent cause of HUS in children younger than five is infection with E. coli bacteria. Normal healthy humans and animals have a type of bacterium called E. coli in their intestines. E. coli can assume a variety of forms, the majority of which are innocuous. There are, however, strains that induce diarrhea.
Some genotypes of E. coli that cause diarrhea produce Shiga toxin, a toxin that causes diarrhea. STEC refers to E. coli producing the Shiga toxin. Infection with a strain of STEC can cause the Shiga toxin to penetrate the bloodstream and cause damage to the blood vessels, leading to HUS. However, even those infected with the most severe E. coli strains rarely develop HUS.
Other causes of HUS in adolescents include:
A pneumococcal infection, HIV infection, or influenza infection.
The use of certain medications, particularly those used to treat cancer and to suppress the immune systems of organ transplant recipients.
Atypical HUS, a rare form of HUS, is genetically transmissible to offspring. Those who inherit the mutated gene may or may not develop this form of HUS. An infection, specific medications, or chronic health conditions may activate the mutated gene and lead to HUS.
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