Haemolytic uraemic syndrome 1

This study aimed to describe the epidemiology of Haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS) in children and to include a measure of severe morbidity and mortality. The study also aimed to estimate the proportion of HUS caused by Vero cytotoxin producing E. coli (VTEC) of all serogroups.

By bpsu · June 1, 1986

Lead investigator

Dr CM Taylor

About the study

This study aimed to examine the epidemiology of haemolytic uraemic
syndrome (HUS) in children in the UK. Approximately 100 to 150 cases of HUS were expected to be reported per year at the start of the surveillance period. The Advisory Committee on the Microbiological Safety of Food at the time recommended that all diarrhoeal stools should be tested for E. coli O 157. This was incorporated into Public Health Laboratory Service policy. All isolates of E. coli O157 were confirmed and
sub typed in the Laboratory of Enteric Pathogens, Colindale or in the Department of Medical Microbiology, Aberdeen. The role of Vero cytotoxin
producing E. coli (VTEC) belonging to serogroups other than 0157 in cases of
HUS were investigated.

Duration

June 1986 – December 1989

Published papers

Haemolytic uraemic syndromes in the British Isles 1985-8: association with verocytotoxin producing Escherichia coli. Part 1: Clinical and epidemiological aspects – PMC

BPSU Fourth Annual Report 1989

Funding

CDSC

Advice/Support Group

Haemolytic Uraemic Syndrome Support (HUSH)
Web: http://www.ecoli-uk.com