Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome secondary to Entamoeba Histolytica Intestinal Infection: A Case Report

Author(s): Bassil Leghrouz* and Juhina Hasassneh

Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) is a rare disease that presents with a triad of microangiopathic heamolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and acute kidney injury, HUS is most often related to acquired causes such as intestinal infection mainly due to Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (??E?), which is the most frequently observed cause.

Entamoeba histolytica is a protozoan parasite known to cause intestinal infection, and it is rarely reported to be complicated with HUS. We present here a case of a 3-year-old child with E. histolytica infection, which is complicated with HUS. The child initially complained of fever, abdominal pain, and bloody diarrhea, but the condition was complicated with rectal prolapse and HUS.

Stool samples revealed the presence of Entamoeba histolytica trophozoites, other common pathogens related to HUS were negative. The patient's kidney function deteriorated to the point of requiring hemodialysis for two days. Fortunately, her condition improved, and she was discharged home in good general condition after a few days.

This case shows an uncommon HUS secondary to intestinal infection by Entamoeba histolytica, which is infrequently described. It is important to recognize HUS as a potential complication of E. histolytica infection, and further research is needed to understand the mechanisms linking both conditions.