Haemolytic uraemic syndrome (STEC-HUS)

What is haemolytic uraemic syndrome (STEC HUS)?

Haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS) is a rare condition that damages the small blood vessels inside the kidneys which makes them less able to work properly. It is also sometimes known as typical HUS or diarrhoea-associated (D+) haemolytic uremic syndrome.

Haemolytic – breakdown of blood cells

Uraemic – the kidneys don’t work as well as they should to remove waste

Syndrome – different parts of the body are affected

STEC HUS is different to aHUS (atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome).

STEC HUS happens in some children after a tummy infection caused by the bacteria (germ) Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia (STEC) E.coli.

STEC HUS affects around 1 in 100,000 people in the UK. There are about 100 new cases a year. It usually affects children under the age of ten. Boys and girls are affected equally.

More information

  • About the urinary system and kidneys

    If your child has a health condition that affects their kidneys or another part of the urinary system, you may wish to find out more.

  • Kidney paediatric healthcare teams

    Understand who the members of your child's kidney healthcare team will be.