Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS)

A healthcare provider will diagnose hemolytic uremic syndrome by:

• Reviewing your medical history.
• Asking about your family medical history.
• Conducting a physical examination.

If they suspect you have HUS, they’ll also order tests.

What tests will be done to diagnose hemolytic uremic syndrome?

A healthcare provider may order the following tests to diagnose hemolytic uremic syndrome:

• Pee test (urinalysis). You’ll pee into a special container and a provider will examine it to see if you have protein or blood in your pee.
• Blood test. A provider will use a small needle to withdraw a sample of blood from a vein, usually in your arm.
• Stool (poop) test. A provider will give you a special container. The next time you have to poop, you’ll collect it in the container and return it to the provider.
• Genetic testing. A provider may send part of your blood sample to a lab for genetic testing. Genetic testing helps determine if you’re more likely to get HUS because of your genes (genetic tendency). It also helps the provider decide which treatment you may need.
• Kidney biopsy. A provider will remove a small part of your kidney and examine it under a microscope to see how well your kidneys work.

Which findings indicate hemolytic uremic syndrome?

Tests look for the presence of different things that indicate hemolytic uremic syndrome:

• Pee tests look for blood or protein.
• Blood tests detail your red blood cell levels and platelet levels. They can also show how well your kidneys and liver work.
• Stool tests check for the presence of E. coli O157 and other bacteria that may cause HUS.
• A kidney biopsy shows damage to your kidney and sometimes the cause of the damage.