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
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Some people may develop serious kidney problems (hemolytic uremic syndrome, also called HUS) and would need to be hospitalized. Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 24 Aug. 2026 The agency noted that certain infections may lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a life-threatening kidney failure condition. Chiara Kim, PEOPLE, 22 Aug. 2026 Infections can lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome, a severe complication that involves acute kidney failure and other severe problems. ABC News, 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 See All Example Sentences for hemolytic uremic syndrome

Word History

First Known Use

1965, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hemolytic uremic syndrome was in 1965

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Cite this Entry

“Hemolytic uremic syndrome.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hemolytic%20uremic%20syndrome. Accessed 2 Sep. 2026.

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
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