Streptococcal Pneumonia Associated Haemolytic Uraemic Syndrome (SP-HUS) in a 4-year-old boy - A rare but serious condition. What should primary care physicians know?

ABSTRACT

We report a case of streptococcal pneumonia associated haemolytic uraemic syndrome (SP-HUS) in a 4-year old child. It is a rare complication of invasive streptococcus pneumonia infection. This article touches on the how the patient's mother was unusually calm after hearing the bad news. Factors that could account for her reaction are explored. Other issues triggered by this case were questions on the pathophysiology, clinical features, treatment and prognosis of this complication. We also discussed "catch-up" vaccination for children immunised with the old 7-valent pneumococcal vaccine, early diagnosis of community acquired pneumonia, recognising antibiotic failure and SP-HUS.