The Hemolytic-Uremic Syndrome

Abstract

The association of acute hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia and renal failure was described by Casser et al.¹ in 1955. Since that time, several hundred cases have been reported, mainly in children. In adults, the hemolytic-uremic syndrome is often associated with pregnancy. The similarity to thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura has suggested to some that the conditions may be related.The pathogenesis of the hemolytic-uremic syndrome has not been established, and, indeed, all cases may not arise from the same pathogenetic mechanisms. Renal lesions have included a severe glomerulitis (termed thrombotic microangiopathy), cortical necrosis and acute necrotizing glomerulonephritis. Fibrinoid necrosis and thrombosis of arteries . . .