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1.
BMC Nephrol ; 25(1): 164, 2024 May 14.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38745129

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Atypical haemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) is an uncommon form of thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA). However, it remains difficult to diagnose the disease early, given its non-specific and overlapping presentation to other conditions such as thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura and typical HUS. It is also important to identify the underlying causes and to distinguish between primary (due to a genetic abnormality leading to a dysregulated alternative complement pathway) and secondary (often attributed by severe infection or inflammation) forms of the disease, as there is now effective treatment such as monoclonal antibodies against C5 for primary aHUS. However, primary aHUS with severe inflammation are often mistaken as a secondary HUS. We presented an unusual case of adult-onset Still's disease (AOSD) with macrophage activation syndrome (MAS), which is in fact associated with anti-complement factor H (anti-CFH) antibodies related aHUS. Although the aHUS may be triggered by the severe inflammation from the AOSD, the presence of anti-CFH antibodies suggests an underlying genetic defect in the alternative complement pathway, predisposing to primary aHUS. One should note that anti-CFH antibodies associated aHUS may not always associate with genetic predisposition to complement dysregulation and can be an autoimmune form of aHUS, highlighting the importance of genetic testing. CASE PRESENTATION: A 42 years old man was admitted with suspected adult-onset Still's disease. Intravenous methylprednisolone was started but patient was complicated with acute encephalopathy and low platelet. ADAMTS13 test returned to be normal and concurrent aHUS was eventually suspected, 26 days after the initial thrombocytopenia was presented. Plasma exchange was started and patient eventually had 2 doses of eculizumab after funding was approved. Concurrent tocilizumab was also used to treat the adult-onset Still's disease with MAS. The patient was eventually stabilised and long-term tocilizumab maintenance treatment was planned instead of eculizumab following haematology review. Although the aHUS may be a secondary event to MAS according to haematology opinion and the genetic test came back negative for the five major aHUS gene, high titre of anti-CFH antibodies was detected (1242 AU/ml). CONCLUSION: Our case highlighted the importance of prompt anti-CFH antibodies test and genetic testing for aHUS in patients with severe AOSD and features of TMA. Our case also emphasized testing for structural variants within the CFH and CFH-related proteins gene region, as part of the routine genetic analysis in patients with anti-CFH antibodies associated aHUS to improve diagnostic approaches.


Subject(s)
Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome , Complement Factor H , Still's Disease, Adult-Onset , Humans , Still's Disease, Adult-Onset/complications , Still's Disease, Adult-Onset/diagnosis , Still's Disease, Adult-Onset/drug therapy , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/complications , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/immunology , Complement Factor H/immunology , Adult , Male , Autoantibodies/blood , Macrophage Activation Syndrome/diagnosis , Macrophage Activation Syndrome/complications , Macrophage Activation Syndrome/immunology
2.
Pediatr Nephrol ; 39(2): 603-607, 2024 Feb.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37474629

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) classically presents with diarrhea. Absence of diarrheal prodrome increases suspicion for atypical HUS (aHUS). Inability to obtain a fecal specimen for culture or culture-independent testing limits the ability to differentiate STEC-HUS and aHUS. CASE-DIAGNOSIS/TREATMENT: Our patient presented with abdominal pain and constipation, and evaluation of pallor led to a diagnosis of HUS. There was a complete absence of diarrhea during the disease course. Lack of fecal specimen for several days delayed testing for STEC. Treatment for atypical HUS was initiated with complement-blockade therapy. PCR-testing for Shiga toxin from fecal specimen later returned positive. Alternative complement-pathway testing did not identify a causative genetic variant or anti-Factor H antibody. A diagnosis of STEC-HUS was assigned, and complement-blockade therapy was stopped. CONCLUSION: Diagnosis of aHUS remains a diagnosis of exclusion, whereby other causes of HUS are eliminated with reasonable certainty. Exclusion of STEC is necessary and relies on testing availability and recognition of testing limitations. Diarrhea-negative STEC-HUS remains a minority of cases, and future research is needed to explore the clinical characteristics of these patients.


Subject(s)
Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome , Escherichia coli Infections , Shiga-Toxigenic Escherichia coli , Humans , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/complications , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/diagnosis , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/therapy , Diarrhea/diagnosis , Diarrhea/etiology , Complement Pathway, Alternative , Constipation/complications , Escherichia coli Infections/complications , Escherichia coli Infections/diagnosis , Escherichia coli Infections/drug therapy
3.
BMJ Case Rep ; 16(11)2023 Nov 09.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37945276

ABSTRACT

A postpartum patient presented 1 week following uncomplicated pregnancy and elective repeat caesarean section with acute hypertension, severe anaemia and acute kidney injury. Her workup demonstrated microangiopathic anaemia, thrombocytopenia and liver enzyme elevations. Differential diagnoses included postpartum haemolysis-elevated liver enzyme-low platelet (HELLP) syndrome, haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS), and thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP). She was treated initially with systemic corticosteroids, haemodialysis and plasmapheresis for presumed TTP while awaiting the results of ADAMSTS13 assay performed at an outside laboratory. When reported back as normal, the diagnosis of atypical HUS was established. Eculizumab was administered with rapid improvement of her condition.


Subject(s)
Anemia, Hemolytic , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome , Purpura, Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic , Thrombocytopenia , Female , Humans , Pregnancy , Anemia, Hemolytic/complications , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/complications , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/diagnosis , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/therapy , Cesarean Section/adverse effects , Postpartum Period , Purpura, Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic/therapy , Thrombocytopenia/complications , Adult
5.
Medicine (Baltimore) ; 102(41): e35469, 2023 Oct 13.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37832064

ABSTRACT

RATIONALE: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease that often causes complications in multiple organs and thrombosis due to abnormal blood coagulation. This case report aimed to describe the clinical course of COVID-19-associated thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) and reviewed the comprehensive information on TMA, thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), and atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome associated with COVID-19 in the past literature. PATIENT CONCERNS: A 46-year-old Japanese man was diagnosed with human immunodeficiency virus infection 10 years ago and treated with antiretroviral therapy. The patient presented with fever, malaise, hematuria, and bilateral upper abdominal discomfort for the past 4 days. DIAGNOSES: COVID-19-associated TMA was diagnosed based on a positive polymerase chain reaction for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 and laboratory findings such as thrombocytopenia, acute kidney injury, and hemolytic anemia. Malignant hypertension and human immunodeficiency virus infection were also considered as differential diagnoses of TMA. INTERVENTIONS: Considering the possibility of TTP, plasma exchange was performed, and glucocorticoids were administered. Hemodialysis was performed for acute kidney injury. Antihypertensive drugs were administered to control the high blood pressure. OUTCOMES: Platelet count and renal function improved, and hemodialysis was no longer required. The patient was in good general condition and was discharged from the hospital. LESSONS: COVID-19-associated TMA should be considered as a differential diagnosis during the COVID-19 epidemic. Excessive inflammation and severe COVID-19 are not essential for TMA development. Early intervention using conventional TMA treatments, such as plasma exchange and corticosteroids, might be important in improving prognosis while differentiating between TTP and atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome. Antihypertensive therapy may be helpful in the treatment of COVID-19-associated TMA.


Subject(s)
Acute Kidney Injury , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome , COVID-19 , HIV Infections , Purpura, Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic , Thrombotic Microangiopathies , Male , Humans , Middle Aged , Plasma Exchange , Purpura, Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic/diagnosis , Antihypertensive Agents , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/complications , COVID-19/complications , COVID-19/therapy , Thrombotic Microangiopathies/diagnosis , Thrombotic Microangiopathies/drug therapy , Thrombotic Microangiopathies/etiology , HIV Infections/complications , HIV Infections/therapy , Acute Kidney Injury/therapy
6.
J Obstet Gynaecol Res ; 49(12): 2804-2810, 2023 Dec.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37671494

ABSTRACT

AIM: Although perinatal thrombotic microangiopathy has become increasingly understood, the racial characteristics of patients with this condition remain unclear. Herein, we report the characteristics of patients with perinatal thrombotic microangiopathy at a single institution in Japan. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective study over a 5-year period from January 1, 2017, to December 31, 2021, using the electronic medical records of pregnant women who delivered at the perinatal center of our hospital. We extracted the data of those who developed perinatal thrombotic microangiopathy and evaluated their characteristics at the time of disease onset, final diagnosis, and maternal and fetal outcomes. RESULTS: Of the 10 224 deliveries that occurred during the 5-year period, only seven patients (0.06%) had perinatal thrombotic microangiopathy. The median pre-pregnant body mass index was 18.65 kg/m2 (minimum 17.3 kg/m2 , maximum 20.7 kg/m2 ). More than half of the patients were conceived by in-vitro fertilization, and 42% these had twin deliveries. Four patients had a history of rheumatic disease. The other three patients without underlying diseases developed thrombotic microangiopathy with HELLP syndrome, and one patient transitioned to atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome. CONCLUSIONS: Based on low body mass index and in-vitro fertilization, which are characteristic of Japanese women, medical complications and twin pregnancies may be a risk for thrombotic microangiopathy. Additionally, depending on the cause of thrombotic microangiopathy, its timing and onset differed.


Subject(s)
Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome , Thrombotic Microangiopathies , Infant, Newborn , Child , Humans , Female , Pregnancy , Retrospective Studies , East Asian People , Perinatal Care , Thrombotic Microangiopathies/etiology , Thrombotic Microangiopathies/complications , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/complications , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/diagnosis
7.
JAMA Ophthalmol ; 141(7): e230589, 2023 07 01.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37471062

ABSTRACT

This case report discusses a diagnosis of atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome in a woman aged 38 years who presented with progressively blurry vision in both eyes over a period of 10 days.


Subject(s)
Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome , Retinal Diseases , Humans , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/diagnosis , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/drug therapy , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/complications , Retinal Diseases/etiology , Retinal Diseases/complications
8.
J Stroke Cerebrovasc Dis ; 32(8): 107238, 2023 Aug.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37392483

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) is a rare disease, with scarce reports of neurologic manifestations in the acute setting. Ischemic cortical infarcts concurrently with aHUS presentation have not been described in adult patients. CASE DESCRIPTION: A 46-year-old male presented with acutely declining mental status and progressive weakness, in the setting of longstanding hypertension and known type B aortic dissection. Urgent neuroimaging showed bilateral multifocal multiterritorial ischemic infarcts, concerning for an embolic source or hypercoagulable state. Systemic workup was notable for microangiopathic hemolytic anemia and acute kidney injury. Empiric plasmapheresis was initiated for presumed thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura. Broad workup did not support such a diagnosis, and kidney biopsy showed findings compatible with aHUS. Additional blood testing showed increased complement pathway activity. Shiga toxin was negative, and overall clinical picture fit with aHUS as diagnosis. Treatment with complement inhibitor was started and patient gradually recovered. Genetic testing confirmed a pertinent pathogenic mutation, CFHR1 homozygous deletion. CONCLUSION: Acute multifocal multiterritorial ischemic infarcts and systemic thrombotic microangiopathy may be a manifestation of aHUS, and with associated genetic mutation, even in adult population.


Subject(s)
Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome , Purpura, Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic , Adult , Male , Humans , Middle Aged , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/complications , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/diagnosis , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/genetics , Homozygote , Sequence Deletion , Purpura, Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic/complications , Infarction
9.
Pediatr Nephrol ; 38(12): 4209-4215, 2023 12.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37306721

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Streptococcus pneumoniae-associated hemolytic uremic syndrome (P-HUS) is a rare and severe disease. Only a few reports have been published about eculizumab use in P-HUS. METHODS: We analyzed demographic, clinical, and laboratory data of patients with P-HUS from our center. RESULTS: The cohort consisted of 4 females and 3 males. All patients had pneumonia. Four were given eculizumab (days 1-3). The eculizumab group required a shorter duration of dialysis and mechanical ventilation (medians 20 vs. 28.5 and 30 vs 38.5 days, respectively) compared with the non-eculizumab group, but this was still much longer than normally reported; the thrombocytopenia resolution was similar in both groups (medians 10 vs. 8 days). Chronic kidney disease (CKD) was correlated with the duration of dialysis and mechanical ventilation duration at 1 year (r = 0.797, P = 0.032 and r = 0.765, P = 0.045) and last follow-up (r = 0.807, P = 0.028 and r = 0.814, P = 0.026, respectively); our scoring system showed even stronger correlations (r = 0.872, P = 0.011 and r = 0.901, P = 0.0057, respectively). The eculizumab group showed slightly better 1-year and last follow-up CKD stage (2.75 vs. 3, P = 0.879 and 2.5 vs. 3.67, P = 0.517). CONCLUSIONS: Despite the fact that the eculizumab group showed better outcomes, eculizumab does not seem to improve the course of P-HUS compared with previous reports. Kidney outcomes are strongly correlated with the duration of dialysis and mechanical ventilation duration. A higher resolution version of the Graphical abstract is available as Supplementary information.


Subject(s)
Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome , Hemolytic-Uremic Syndrome , Renal Insufficiency, Chronic , Male , Female , Humans , Streptococcus pneumoniae , Renal Dialysis , Kidney , Hemolytic-Uremic Syndrome/complications , Hemolytic-Uremic Syndrome/drug therapy , Renal Insufficiency, Chronic/complications , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/complications , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/drug therapy
10.
J Clin Apher ; 38(5): 647-650, 2023 Oct.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37338178

ABSTRACT

Atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) is a rare and life-threatening form of thrombotic microangiopathy, associated with high mortality and morbidity. Most cases present with hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and renal insufficiency. However, it can have unusual multiple end-organ injuries including extrarenal organ and system involvements such as neurologic, cardiac, gastrointestinal, and respiratory systems. We describe a 4-year-old girl who developed aHUS due to the TSEN2 mutation and had cardiac involvement. She did not benefit from plasma exchange, as stated in previous cases. It should be kept in mind that therapeutic plasma exchange may not be beneficial in some cases of aHUS, especially due to genetic mutations.


Subject(s)
Anemia, Hemolytic , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome , Thrombotic Microangiopathies , Female , Humans , Child, Preschool , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/genetics , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/therapy , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/complications , Plasma Exchange , Plasmapheresis , Anemia, Hemolytic/therapy , Thrombotic Microangiopathies/therapy
11.
J Am Soc Nephrol ; 34(9): 1561-1573, 2023 09 01.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37303085

ABSTRACT

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Shiga toxin-related hemolytic uremic syndrome (STEC-HUS) is a serious condition, characterized by multiorgan thrombotic microangiopathy, mainly affecting children. Renal involvement is severe, with approximately half of patients requiring dialysis. So far, no specific treatment has been proven efficient in STEC-HUS. The use of eculizumab, a monoclonal antibody inhibiting terminal complement complex, has demonstrated remarkable success in atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome, but its use in uncontrolled studies to treat STEC-HUS has yielded inconsistent results. In this Phase 3 randomized, placebo-controlled trial in 100 pediatric patients with STEC-HUS, the findings did not show efficacy of eculizumab during the acute phase of the disease. However, the results indicated a reduction of renal sequelae in eculizumab-treated patients at 1-year follow-up. Larger prospective studies would be needed to further explore eculizumab as a potential treatment. BACKGROUND: Shiga toxin-related hemolytic uremic syndrome (STEC-HUS) in children is a severe condition, resulting in approximately 50% of patients requiring RRT. Furthermore, at least 30% of survivors experience kidney sequelae. Recently, activation of the complement alternative pathway has been postulated as a factor in STEC-HUS pathophysiology, leading to compassionate use of eculizumab, a monoclonal antibody inhibiting the terminal complement complex, in affected patients. Given the lack of therapy for STEC-HUS, a controlled study of eculizumab efficacy in treating this condition is a priority. METHODS: We conducted a Phase 3 randomized trial of eculizumab in children with STEC-HUS. Patients were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive either eculizumab or placebo during 4 weeks. Follow-up lasted for 1 year. The primary end point was RRT duration <48 hours after randomization. Secondary endpoints included hematologic and extrarenal involvement. RESULTS: Baseline characteristics were similar among the 100 patients who underwent randomization. The rate of RRT <48 hours did not differ significantly between the two groups (48% in the placebo versus 38% in the eculizumab group; P = 0.31) or in the course of ARF. The two groups also exhibited similar hematologic evolution and extrarenal manifestations of STEC-HUS. The proportion of patients experiencing renal sequelae at 1 year was lower in the eculizumab group than in the placebo group (43.48% and 64.44%, respectively, P = 0.04). No safety concern was reported. CONCLUSIONS: In pediatric patients with STEC-HUS, eculizumab treatment does not appear to be associated with improved renal outcome during acute phase of the disease but may reduce long-term kidney sequelae. CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATIONS: EUDRACT (2014-001169-28) ClinicalTrials.gov ( NCT02205541 ).


Subject(s)
Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome , Escherichia coli Infections , Child , Humans , Prospective Studies , Complement Membrane Attack Complex , Shiga Toxin/therapeutic use , Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized/adverse effects , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/drug therapy , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/complications
12.
JNMA J Nepal Med Assoc ; 61(261): 472-474, 2023 May 01.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37203902

ABSTRACT

Thrombotic microangiopathy is a pathological condition comprised of microvascular thrombosis involving any body organ leading to thrombocytopenia, coombs-negative hemolytic anemia, and end-organ damage. The clinical presentation of the case shows typical hemolytic uremic syndrome, however, lab reports show atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (low C3). Pain abdomen and loose stool with some signs of dehydration were initial presentations. Early initiation of renal replacement therapy and management of dehydration was done. Simple diarrhea can also manifest as acute kidney injury with the hemolytic uremic syndrome. Hence we should keep hemolytic uremic syndrome as the differential diagnosis of diarrhea. Irrespective of lab parameters, early management in line with the typical hemolytic uremic syndrome should be done for better outcomes. Keywords: anemia; case reports; dehydration; renal replacement therapy.


Subject(s)
Acute Kidney Injury , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome , Thrombotic Microangiopathies , Humans , Dehydration/complications , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/complications , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/diagnosis , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/therapy , Thrombotic Microangiopathies/diagnosis , Thrombotic Microangiopathies/drug therapy , Thrombotic Microangiopathies/etiology , Acute Kidney Injury/diagnosis , Acute Kidney Injury/etiology , Acute Kidney Injury/therapy , Diarrhea/etiology
13.
BMC Nephrol ; 24(1): 127, 2023 05 05.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37147581

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: We present this challenging case report of Atypical Haemolytic Uremic Syndrome (aHUS) presenting with multi-organ involvement in a patient and heterozygous CFHR1/CFHR3 gene variant, which was refractory to initial eculizumab therapy. CASE PRESENTATION: A forty-three year old female presented with aHUS and had heterozygous disease-associated deletions in the complement genes CFHR1/CFHR3. She had progressive kidney failure and severe extra-renal manifestations including cardiomyopathy and haemorrhagic cystitis; as well as pulmonary, gastrointestinal and neurological involvement. The initial kidney biopsy revealed thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) changes involving all glomeruli. Clinical improvement was initially seen during eculizumab initiation with suppressed CH50 level, but a new rhinovirus/enterovirus upper respiratory tract infection triggered further severe multi-organ disease activity. The extra-renal manifestations stabilised, then ultimately improved after a period of eculizumab dose intensification. However, the impact on dose intensification on this improvement is unclear. Despite the extra-renal clinical improvement, she ultimately progressed to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), commencing peritoneal dialysis for three years before undergoing a successful uncomplicated cadaveric kidney transplant without prophylactic eculizumab. Two years after transplant, she has excellent transplant graft function without any further disease recurrence. CONCLUSIONS: This case highlights the concept of extra-renal manifestations in aHUS initially resistant to eculizumab, which potentially responded to dose intensification. Whilst organ injuries are potentially reversible with timely targeted treatment, it appears that the kidneys are most vulnerable to injury.


Subject(s)
Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome , Kidney Failure, Chronic , Kidney Transplantation , Female , Humans , Adult , Gene Deletion , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/complications , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/diagnosis , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/drug therapy , Kidney , Kidney Failure, Chronic/genetics , Blood Proteins , Complement C3b Inactivator Proteins/genetics
14.
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina ; 54(5): 297-300, 2023 05.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37022313

ABSTRACT

In this case report, we describe a 34-year-old male patient who presented with vision loss and was found to have profound occlusive retinal vasculopathy. His initial laboratory studies were unremarkable, but five weeks after his ocular symptoms began, he developed acute multi-organ failure and was ultimately diagnosed with atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS). His course was complicated by a stroke, respiratory distress requiring intubation, long-term hemodialysis, and eventually death. Occlusive retinal vasculopathy may be the presenting finding in aHUS, although thrombotic microangiopathy syndromes typically present with acute kidney injury and or failure, hemolytic anemia, and thrombocytopenia. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina 2023;54:297-300.].


Subject(s)
Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome , Thrombotic Microangiopathies , Vitreoretinopathy, Proliferative , Male , Humans , Adult , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/complications , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/diagnosis , Thrombotic Microangiopathies/complications , Thrombotic Microangiopathies/diagnosis , Renal Dialysis/adverse effects , Diagnosis, Differential , Vitreoretinopathy, Proliferative/diagnosis
15.
Am J Case Rep ; 24: e938896, 2023 Apr 30.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37120715

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) includes the triad of thrombocytopenia, microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, and acute renal failure. The atypical form of HUS is a rare disease characterized by complement overactivation, and it can be from genetic or acquired causes. Genetic causes involve mutation in one of the factors in the alternative complement pathway or inhibitors. Malignant hypertension and pregnancy are the most important acquired causes. The optimal management of patients with aHUS is with eculizumab, which is recombinant antibody against human complement component C5. CASE REPORT This report describes the case of a 25-year-old woman with frequent hospitalizations for poorly controlled hypertension who presented at 20 weeks of gestation with headache, vomiting, and a blood pressure of 230/126 mmHg. The patient had acute kidney injury with hematuria and proteinuria, and kidney biopsy showed hypertensive arteriolar nephrosclerosis and fibrinoid arteriolar necrosis consistent with thrombotic microangiopathy. Further work-up with a genetic panel showed heterozygosity for the thrombomodulin (THBD) gene. She was started on treatment with plasma exchange and eculizumab, a recombinant monoclonal antibody that inhibits terminal complement activation at the C5 protein. The patient responded well to the treatment at the time of her initial outpatient follow-up. CONCLUSIONS This case shows the potential of severe renal manifestation of aHUS, and the need for a kidney biopsy in cases of severe uncontrolled hypertension presenting with kidney injury. If evidence of aHUS is found, prompt treatment with plasma exchange and eculizumab should be initiated.


Subject(s)
Acute Kidney Injury , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome , Hypertension , Purpura, Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic , Female , Pregnancy , Humans , Adult , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/genetics , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/therapy , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/complications , Plasma Exchange , Thrombomodulin/genetics , Thrombomodulin/therapeutic use , Acute Kidney Injury/etiology , Hypertension/complications
17.
J Rheumatol ; 50(6): 730-740, 2023 06.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-36642429

ABSTRACT

The complement system is a tightly regulated, cascading protein network representing a key component linking the innate and humoral immune systems. However, if misdirected or dysregulated, it can be similarly damaging to host-tissue. The role of complement dysregulation on vascular endothelial cells has been well established in atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS), a thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) characterized by microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and target organ injury. Yet, a great deal of complexity exists around the role of complement in TMA associated with other diseases. A further complicating factor is the cross-talk between complement, neutrophils, and coagulation pathways in the pathophysiology of TMA. Advancements in the understanding of the etiopathogenesis of aHUS paved the way for the successful development of anticomplement therapies (complement C5 inhibitors), which have revolutionized the treatment of aHUS. Therefore, a clearer understanding of the role of the complement system in TMA associated with other conditions will help to identify patients who would benefit from these therapies. This review aims to provide an assessment of the nature and extent of complement involvement in TMA associated with autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus, antiphospholipid syndrome, and scleroderma renal crisis. Defining the role of complement in TMA in these conditions will help to guide timely diagnosis and management.


Subject(s)
Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome , Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic , Thrombotic Microangiopathies , Humans , Endothelial Cells/pathology , Thrombotic Microangiopathies/complications , Complement System Proteins , Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic/complications , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/complications , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/pathology , Complement C5
18.
Paediatr Drugs ; 25(2): 193-202, 2023 Mar.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-36637720

ABSTRACT

Atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome is a thrombotic microangiopathy characterized by hemolysis, thrombocytopenia, and acute kidney injury, usually caused by alternative complement system overactivation due to pathogenic genetic variants or antibodies to components or regulatory factors in this pathway. Previously, a lack of effective treatment for this condition was associated with mortality, end-stage kidney disease, and the risk of disease recurrence after kidney transplantation. Plasma therapy has been used for atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome treatment with inconsistent results. Complement-blocking treatment changed the outcome and prognosis of patients with atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome. Early administration of eculizumab, a monoclonal C5 antibody, leads to improvements in hematologic, kidney, and systemic manifestations in patients with atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome, even with apparent dialysis dependency. Pre- and post-transplant use of eculizumab is effective in the prevention of atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome recurrence. Evidence on eculizumab use in secondary hemolytic uremic syndrome cases is controversial. Recent data favor the restrictive use of eculizumab in carefully selected atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome cases, but close monitoring for relapse after drug discontinuation is emphasized. Prophylaxis for meningococcal infection is important. The long-acting C5 monoclonal antibody ravulizumab is now approved for atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome treatment, enabling a reduction in the dosing frequency and improving the quality of life in patients with atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome. New strategies for additional and novel complement blockage medications in atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome are under investigation.


Subject(s)
Acute Kidney Injury , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome , Humans , Child , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/drug therapy , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/complications , Quality of Life , Renal Dialysis , Treatment Outcome
19.
Retin Cases Brief Rep ; 17(2): 154-159, 2023 Mar 01.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-33492076

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to report the case of a patient presenting with newly diagnosed atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) and Purtscher-like retinopathy. METHODS: This is an observational case report and review of literature. A 38-year-old woman presented with 3 months of rashes, fevers, arthralgias, and abdominal pain. Initial workup was suggestive of hypereosinophilic syndrome or adult-onset Still's disease. The patient developed acute renal failure and progressively blurry vision bilaterally over the course of 5 days. Funduscopic examination was notable for numerous Purtscher flecken and cotton-wool spots, with rare intraretinal hemorrhages at the posterior pole. The constellation of renal failure, hemolytic anemia, and thrombocytopenia prompted a workup for thrombotic microangiopathy that was remarkable for a mutation in the gene coding for complement protein C9. RESULTS: The patient was diagnosed with aHUS and treated with intravenous pulse dose steroids for 3 days and an extended course of eculizumab. The patient's renal failure resolved, and her visual acuity improved, although she had residual visual field constriction and developed bilateral optic atrophy. Outcomes of other cases of Purtscher-like retinopathy related to aHUS are reviewed. CONCLUSION: Purtscher-like retinopathy is a rare but severe ophthalmic complication of aHUS. Eculizumab is an effective treatment for the systemic illness caused by aHUS, and anatomical resolution of Purtscher-like retinopathy may follow, although visual prognosis remains guarded. Recovery of visual acuity may lag behind resolution of macular edema in these patients.


Subject(s)
Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome , Renal Insufficiency , Retinal Diseases , Adult , Female , Humans , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/complications , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/therapy , Retinal Diseases/diagnosis , Retinal Hemorrhage/etiology , Eye
20.
Nephron ; 147(1): 35-38, 2023.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-35793648

ABSTRACT

Pregnancy-related AKI is a global health problem and is associated with a higher risk of both maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Risk factors for developing AKI during pregnancy include older age, history of preeclampsia, and comorbidities like diabetes. Hyperemesis gravidarum is a common cause of AKI during the first trimester, and conditions such as preeclampsia, acute fatty liver disease of pregnancy, thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, hemolytic uremic syndrome, and placental abruption are important causes of AKI later in the pregnancy. Diagnosis of pregnancy-related AKI is challenging due to the lack of standard criteria and overlap of clinical manifestations among different etiologies. Timely diagnosis of pregnancy-related AKI is instrumental. Specific treatment includes steroids and immunosuppressive therapy for glomerulonephritis, prompt delivery for severe preeclampsia and acute fatty liver of pregnancy, plasmapheresis for thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, and eculizumab for the atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome. Due to the high complexity, management of pregnancy-related AKI should be performed by a multidisciplinary team consisting of a nephrologist, obstetrician, and neonatologist.


Subject(s)
Acute Kidney Injury , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome , Pre-Eclampsia , Purpura, Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic , Pregnancy , Female , Humans , Purpura, Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic/complications , Purpura, Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic/diagnosis , Placenta , Acute Kidney Injury/diagnosis , Acute Kidney Injury/etiology , Acute Kidney Injury/therapy , Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome/complications
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