Case report - atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome triggered by influenza B

BMC Nephrol. 2017 Mar 20;18(1):96. doi: 10.1186/s12882-017-0512-y.

Abstract

Background: Influenza A infections have been described to cause secondary hemolytic uremic syndrome and to trigger atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) in individuals with an underlying genetic complement dysregulation. To date, influenza B has not been reported to trigger aHUS.

Case presentation: A 6-month-old boy presented with hemolytic uremic syndrome triggered by influenza B infection. Initially the child recovered spontaneously. When he relapsed Eculizumab treatment was initiated, resulting in complete and sustained remission. A pathogenic mutation in membrane cofactor protein (MCP) was detected.

Conclusion: Influenza B is a trigger for aHUS and might be underreported as such. Influenza vaccination may protect patients at risk.

Keywords: Atypical HUS; HUS; Hemolytic uremic syndrome; Influenza; Influenza vaccination; Quadrivalent; aHUS.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome / diagnosis*
  • Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome / etiology*
  • Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome / therapy
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Influenza B virus / classification
  • Influenza B virus / isolation & purification*
  • Influenza, Human / complications*
  • Influenza, Human / diagnosis*
  • Influenza, Human / therapy
  • Male
  • Treatment Outcome