Although rare, Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS) is a serious condition that can occur as a complication of an E. coli infection. Let’s look into the details of this disease, its causes, symptoms, and potential consequences.
What is Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS)?
HUS primarily affects the kidneys and blood clotting functions in a human body. It arises when small blood vessels become damaged and inflamed, leading to the formation of clots throughout the body. These clots can wreak havoc on vital organs, like the kidneys, leading to life-threatening kidney failure.
Causes of HUS
E. coli infection occurs from consuming any product contaminated with the bacterium such as raw or undercooked meat, sprouts, lettuce, salami, and unpasteurized milk, juices, or ciders. E. coli can also be spread from an infected person to a non-infected person if the infected person does not wash their hands after using the toilet. HUS is only developed by a small percentage of those infected with E. coli.
HUS is commonly caused by infection from specific E. coli bacteria strains. Certain strains of E. coli bacteria create a toxin called Shiga, which contribute to the development of HUS.
HUS can also be caused by other factors. Some medications, such as quinine sulfate and cyclosporine, can suppress the immune system and lead to HUS. Complications from other conditions like cancer, autoimmune disease, and, although rare, even pregnancy can also be associated with HUS. Infections from other pathogens, like pneumococcal bacteria, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), or flu virus can also cause HUS.
Who is at risk of HUS?
Children under the age of 5 are particularly susceptible to HUS as are those with compromised immune systems from cancer, HIV/AIDS, or transplant surgeries. Those with a family history of HUS are at greater risk of developing the disease than the general public.
Symptoms of HUS
Depending on the cause, symptoms of HUS can vary from severe diarrhea, to intense abdominal pain, bloating, and cramping, to headaches and fever, and to vomiting.
As the infection grows, affected individuals may experience additional symptoms of fatigue, loss of color, swelling in the lower body, blood in the urine, confusion, high blood pressure, and more.
Complications and Treatment
HUS can lead to acute kidney failure, which can present without warning or can present over time. Hospitalization may be required for treatments like kidney dialysis, platelet transfusions, and red blood cell transfusions.
If left untreated, HUS can result in other life-threatening conditions like coma, bleeding, heart issues, stroke, and intestinal problems.
Prevention Measures
To minimize the risk of E. coli infection, follow proper food safety protocols. Wash raw foods thoroughly before consumption, store raw meat on the lowest level in the refrigerator, thaw frozen meat in the refrigerator or microwave, and ensure meat is cooked thoroughly to at least 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
Avoid raw milk and any unpasteurized juices, ciders, or other beverages that can harbor E. coli.
Additional safety practices include washing hands before eating and after using the toilet or changing diapers. People with diarrhea should avoid swimming pools to limit the risk of spreading the infection to others.
Commenting on this article, one national food safety attorney said, “If you or someone you know exhibits symptoms of HUS, seek immediate medical attention. Early intervention can make a significant difference in outcomes. Failure to properly treat adn reverse kidney damage can lead to life-long incapacitation adn even death”
