STREPTOCOCCUS PNEUMONIAE-INDUCED HEMOLYTIC-UREMIC SYNDROME

Haemolytic uraemic syndrome secondary to infection with neuraminidase producing Streptococcus pneumoniae is well recognised, but was previou sly considered to be rare, This case report describes the course of a 9-month-old male with pneumococcal pneumonia, T activation and haemoly tic uraemic syndrome. The clinical features of three other cases treat ed in Southeast Queensland in the past 2 years and 12 previously repor ted cases are summarised. The widespread availability of rapid diagnos tic testing for this entity should allow for increased recognition, en abling appropriate use of low plasma volume blood products with improv ed patient outcome.