A Rare Case of Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (aHUS) Precipitated by Dengue and the Treatment Landscape in Singapore

Cureus. 2024 Apr 22;16(4):e58731. doi: 10.7759/cureus.58731. eCollection 2024 Apr.

Abstract

Atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) is a rare disease caused by uncontrolled complement activation due to complement dysregulation. It is often triggered by precipitating events such as infections, inflammation, pregnancy, or medications. Dengue, an endemic viral infection in Southeast Asia, can activate the complement pathway, thereby triggering aHUS in genetically susceptible individuals. Here, we present the case of a 33-year-old male who presented with Dengue fever and subsequently developed aHUS. Plasma exchange (PLEX) successfully normalized his neurological status and hematological parameters. Although his renal function improved, it failed to normalize. Eculizumab, a monoclonal antibody that inhibits C5, was administered for a total of six months. The treatment was successfully discontinued without evidence of relapse after six months of follow-up. This case report demonstrates the safety of discontinuing eculizumab in patients who do not possess pathogenic mutations or variants in complement factors.

Keywords: atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome; complement factor h related protein; dengue fever/complications; eculizumab; hemolytic anaemia; plasma exchange therapy; renal failure; thrombocytopenia; thrombotic microangiopathy (tma); thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (ttp)-like syndrome.

Publication types

  • Case Reports