hemolytic uremic syndrome

noun

: a rare disease that is marked by the formation of thrombi in the capillaries and arterioles especially of the kidney, that is characterized clinically by hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and progressive kidney failure, that has several causes (such as infection with E. coli or the use of chemotherapeutic or immunosuppressant drugs), and that primarily affects infants and young children

—abbreviation HUS

Examples of hemolytic uremic syndrome in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The report said that 20 of 47 were hospitalized and one developed hemolytic uremic syndrome, which can cause kidney failure. —Justin Gest, Newsweek, 11 Feb. 2025

Hackney adds that in some cases, raw milk can lead to life-threatening complications like meningitis and hemolytic uremic syndrome. —Taylor Grothe, Parents, 14 Dec. 2024

For example, certain E. coli infections can lead to a serious health condition called hemolytic uremic syndrome, or HUS, which can cause kidney failure, permanent health problems and death, according to the CDC. —Sara Moniuszko, CBS News, 23 Oct. 2024

Ten other people have been hospitalized, including a child who developed a kidney disease called hemolytic uremic syndrome. —Erika Edwards, NBC News, 23 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1965, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

hemolytic uremic syndrome

noun

: a rare disease that is marked by the formation of thrombi in the capillaries and arterioles especially of the kidney, that is characterized clinically by hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and progressive kidney failure, that is precipitated by a variety of etiologic factors (as infection with Escherichia coli or Shigella dysenteriae), and that primarily affects infants and young children

—abbreviation HUS see thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura