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STEC-Associated HUS — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

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HardGastroenterologySTEC-Associated HUSRACP Paediatrics

A 4-year-old presents with abdominal pain and bloody diarrhoea. He ate undercooked minced beef 3 days ago. FBC shows anaemia and thrombocytopenia. Blood film shows fragmented red cells. Creatinine is elevated. What organism is the most likely cause?

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Correct answer: B — Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC, O157:H7)

STEC (O157:H7) causes bloody diarrhoea and is the most common cause of HUS in children. HUS triad: microangiopathic haemolytic anaemia, thrombocytopenia, acute kidney injury. Antibiotics are NOT recommended as they may increase toxin release and worsen HUS.

Reference: RCH Melbourne – 2024 – Clinical Practice Guidelines: Haemolytic Uraemic Syndrome