Ultrasound Evidence of Acute Appendicitis in a Patient with Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome

Year 2019, Volume: 10 Issue: 4, 108 - 111, 01.10.2019

Rija Siddiqui Shahid Nadeem Neethu Menon Jo-Ann Nesiama

https://doi.org/10.33706/jemcr.543056

Abstract

Introduction: Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) is a clinical syndrome characterized by microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and acute kidney injury. Children with HUS often present with gastrointestinal complaints, including abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. This presentation can mimic other gastrointestinal illnesses, including appendicitis, which further adds to the known diagnostic challenge. 

Case Report: We report an 8-year-old male who presents with abdominal pain and diarrhea-associated HUS. Kidney ultrasound obtained for acute kidney failure showed incidental findings of dilated appendix which were confirmed on a follow-up appendix ultrasound. Patient lacked the typical findings of acute appendicitis such as fever, abdominal tenderness or rigidity. We observed the patient without medical or surgical treatment for acute appendicitis as ultrasound findings were attributed to HUS, and the patient’s abdominal pain and HUS resolved without any intervention. 

Conclusion: Self-limited appendiceal inflammation may be seen in diarrhea-associated HUS, and the diagnostic utility of appendix ultrasound to evaluate for acute appendicitis may be limited in a patient with HUS and abdominal pain.

Keywords

Hemolytic uremic syndrome; appendicitis; microangiopathic hemolytic anemia

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