Hemolytic-Uremic Syndrome

A rare disorder related to thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) in which the number of platelets suddenly decreases, red blood cells are destroyed, and the kidneys stop functioning. The syndrome can occur with bacterial infections (particularly intestinal infections with Escherichia coli O157:H7 or some strains of Shigella) and with the use of some drugs (including quinine, cyclosporine and mitomycin C). It is most common in infants, young children, and women who are pregnant or have just given birth, although it can occur in older children, adults, and women who are not pregnant.