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

While most people recover from an E. coli infection within a week, a rare type of kidney failure called hemolytic uremic syndrome can affect 5 to 10 percent of people infected with certain strains of the bacteria. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 29 Nov. 2024

These can include: Dehydration Bloody diarrhea Abdominal cramps Fever In rare cases, some people, especially older adults and children under 5, may develop a type of kidney failure called hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) which is marked by easy bruising, pallor, and decreased urine output. —Shelby Slade, The Arizona Republic, 18 Nov. 2024

Out of 61 patients with information available, 22 have been hospitalized and two people have developed a serious condition that can cause kidney failure, called hemolytic uremic syndrome. —Annika Kim Constantino,amelia Lucas, CNBC, 25 Oct. 2024

That said, some people can develop hemolytic uremic syndrome which can cause serious kidney problems and would demand hospitalization. —Perry Vandell, The Arizona Republic, 18 Nov. 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