# An Atypical Case of Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome Caused by Shiga Toxin Produced by Aeromonas spp

## TL;DR

An elderly woman developed hemolytic uremic syndrome from a rare bacterial toxin, highlighting new causes in adults.

## Contribution

Identifies Aeromonas hydrophila as a novel cause of HUS in an adult, expanding understanding of its etiology.

## Key findings

- A 77-year-old woman developed HUS after consuming raw oysters contaminated with Aeromonas hydrophila.
- Stool antigen testing and blood culture confirmed the presence of Shiga-like toxin and Aeromonas hydrophila.
- The case highlights the need for broader clinical awareness of non-traditional HUS causes in adults.

## Abstract

Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), traditionally recognized in pediatric populations, is characterized by renal insufficiency, hemolytic anemia, and thrombocytopenia, often linked to Shiga-like toxin (SLT) exposure. While typically associated with enteric pathogens like Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Shigella, Aeromonas spp. has also been identified as potential SLT producers, posing a new challenge. This study presents an exceptional case of HUS in a 77-year-old female, implicating Aeromonas hydrophila as the causative agent. The patient's clinical trajectory, marked by acute kidney injury post-consumption of raw oysters, underscores the unorthodox manifestation of HUS in adults. Diagnostic confirmation via stool antigen testing and blood culture revealed the presence of SLT and Aeromonas hydrophila, respectively. This case underscores the evolving landscape of HUS etiology, stressing the importance of heightened clinical awareness to expedite therapeutic intervention and mitigate long-term renal complications.