Haemolytic Uraemic Syndrome: An Unusual Cause of Jaundice

Abstract

Introduction: Haemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) is a disease characterised by microangiopathic haemolytic anaemia, thrombocytopenia and renal impairment. It can be either typical HUScaused by shiga toxin producing enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli or atypical HUS- caused by mutation in the gene for complement proteins (1). HUS should be considered in patients presenting with jaundice to the emergency room in the setting of the above mentioned triad. Case Report: This case report is about a 41 year old lady who presented with jaundice, thrombocytopenia, anemia and renal failure. In the course of investigating the cause of her symptoms, a diagnosis of HUS was made and she was commenced on therapeutic plasma exchange and
hemodialysis. Conclusion: The main lesson is to raise awareness of HUS as a possible cause of jaundice among physicians, especially those in the emergency care.