What causes HUS?

 

Most cases of HUS occur after a gastrointestinal infection in the digestive tract caused by the E. coli bacterium. About 2 percent to 7 percent of infections lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome. E. coli may be found in contaminated food, such as dairy products and meat. HUS has also been associated Shigella and Salmonella. It is most common in children and the most common cause of acute kidney failure in children.

Several large outbreaks of HUS in 1992 and 1993 were attributed to undercooked hamburger contaminated with E. coli. Because of this association, supermarket hamburger has new labeling, and there are new temperature guidelines for hamburger cooked at fast-food chains and restaurants.

HUS is more complicated in adults.

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