Haemolytic uraemic syndrome

Diarrhoea-associated haemolytic uraemic syndrome develops in about 5 to 10% of children with haemorrhagic colitis due to Escherichia coli (E. coli) O157:H7 and is a common cause of acute renal failure in childhood. Endothelial cell damage, white blood cell activation and platelet-endothelial cell interactions are important in the pathogenesis. Meticulous supportive care, with attention to nutrition and fluid, and electrolyte balance, is important. Dialysis is necessary in many children. Public health follow-up is important to minimise the spread of E. coli O157:H7, which is transmitted by person-to-person, as well as through contaminated food products. 20-year follow-up studies report that 75% of children recover without any clinically significant long term sequelae. Chronic renal failure is reported in about 5% of children.