Typical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome Secondary to Influenza A in a Pediatric Patient With Complex Comorbidities: A Rare Encounter.

Abstract

Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) is a severe condition characterized by hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and acute kidney injury (AKI). It can be atypical, due to complement dysregulation, or typical, primarily linked to bacterial infections, with viral-induced HUS being extremely rare. We report the case of a six-year-old male who presented with eight days of upper respiratory tract infection symptoms. Initial treatment for tonsillitis was ineffective. He was admitted to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) with severe dehydration, high-grade fever, and AKI, and was initially suspected of having multi-system inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C). Further investigation confirmed typical HUS, likely secondary to Influenza A. The child required peritoneal dialysis and other supportive treatments until recovery. This case underscores the need to consider viral-induced HUS in pediatric patients with severe infections and complex medical presentations. An interdisciplinary approach and timely interventions were crucial for his recovery. This rare presentation of HUS associated with Influenza A highlights the importance of clinical awareness and the need for further research to improve care strategies for similar cases.