hemolytic uremic syndrome

medical condition

Also known as: HUS

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Last updated

July 23, 2026

Quick Summary

Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) is a rare disease primarily affecting infants and young children. It is characterized by the formation of blood clots in small blood vessels, particularly in the kidneys. This leads to hemolytic anemia (destruction of red blood cells), thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), and progressive kidney failure.1

HUS can have various causes, including infections with bacteria like E. coli, or the use of certain chemotherapy or immunosuppressant drugs. The abbreviation for hemolytic uremic syndrome is HUS.12

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German E. coli outbreak of 2011
About 900 cases involved hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), in which infection of the gastrointestinal tract by toxin-producing bacteria results in the destruction of red blood cells. Kidney failure, a frequent complication of HUS, was the primary cause of death during the outbreak.
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About 900 cases involved hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), in which infection of the gastrointestinal tract by toxin-producing bacteria results in the destruction of red blood cells. Kidney failure, a frequent complication of HUS, was the primary cause of death during the outbreak.
Read More