The haemolytic uraemic syndrome and anaesthesia

Abstract

The Haemolytic Uraemic Syndrome is the most important cause of renal failure in infancy and childhood. The disease usually consists of a typical triad of renal failure, haemolytic anaemia, thrombocytopenia. It is, however, a multisystem disorder which may also involve the liver as well as cardiovascular, pulmonary and central nervous systems. We present a case of a female child with Haemolytic Uraemic Syndrome who presented for placement of an arteriovenous shunt to facilitate haemodialysis. The clinical presentation and management of the Haemolytic Uraemic Syndrome is discussed. Anaesthetic management of patients with the Haemolytic Uraemic Syndrome is discussed and recommendations are made. © 1987 Canadian Anesthesiologists.