Case Series of 3 Patients Diagnosed With Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome Successfully Treated With Steroids, Plasmapheresis, and Rituximab.

rationaleAtypical hemolytic uremic syndrome, which has a high probability of chronic kidney disease, morbidity, and mortality, needs to be promptly recognized when patients present with microangiopathic hemolysis. PRESENTING CONCERNS OF THE PATIENT: Three patients present with laboratory parameters consistent with a thrombotic microangiopathy. With a suspected diagnosis of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, steroids with plasmapheresis were initiated. DIAGNOSES: With ADAMTS13 levels reported normal, the suspected diagnoses were reevaluated. Given ongoing renal impairment, atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome was strongly considered.

interventionsWhen local funding issues precluded the prompt use of eculizumab, 4 doses of weekly rituximab were trialed. OUTCOME: Over 2 years later, all 3 patients have sustained durable remissions defined by the absence of kidney impairment or laboratory investigations concerning for microangiopathic hemolytic relapse. LESSONS LEARNED: In cases of a suspected autoimmune mechanism leading to atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome, long-term use of eculizumab may not be required.