Thrombotic microangiopathies and the kidney

Thrombotic microangiopathies are rare but carry a high morbidity and mortality. Most are treatable if identified early. A high index of suspicion is required in individuals presenting with renal impairment and features of microangiopathy such as a low platelet count and Coombs test-negative haemolytic anaemia. In Shiga toxin-mediated haemolytic –uraemic syndrome, bacteria such as Escherichia coli O157 and O104 adhere to the intestinal mucosa and secrete a highly potent Shiga cytotoxin that binds to the glomerular endothelium and causes an endotheliopathy.
Source: Medicine - Category: Internal Medicine Authors: Tags: Systemic disease and the kidney Source Type: research