hemolytic uremic syndrome

noun

: a rare disease that is marked by the formation of thrombi in the capillaries and arterioles especially of the kidney, that is characterized clinically by hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and progressive kidney failure, that has several causes (such as infection with E. coli or the use of chemotherapeutic or immunosuppressant drugs), and that primarily affects infants and young children

—abbreviation HUS

Examples of hemolytic uremic syndrome in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Infections can lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome, a severe complication that involves acute kidney failure and other severe problems. — ABC News, 20 Aug. 2026

While most healthy individuals recover within a week, some infections may result in a serious complication known as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), particularly in young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. — Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 20 Aug. 2026

In severe cases, the bacteria can cause hemolytic uremic syndrome, which can lead to kidney failure and be life-threatening. — Megan Cerullo, CBS News, 19 Aug. 2026

That particular strain is known to produce Shiga toxin, which can lead to severe stomach illness and a life-threatening kidney condition called hemolytic uremic syndrome. — Tanasia Kenney, Charlotte Observer, 7 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1965, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for hemolytic uremic syndrome

• acrosome
• aerodrome
• catacomb
• centrosome
• chromosome
• cytochrome
• hippodrome
• honeycomb
• liposome
• meerschaum
• metronome
• microtome

Medical Definition

hemolytic uremic syndrome

noun

: a rare disease that is marked by the formation of thrombi in the capillaries and arterioles especially of the kidney, that is characterized clinically by hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and progressive kidney failure, that is precipitated by a variety of etiologic factors (as infection with Escherichia coli or Shigella dysenteriae), and that primarily affects infants and young children

—abbreviation HUS see thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura