Complications
Respiratory failure, paralysis, and even death may ensue if this condition is not treated promptly with antitoxin. These patients will require respiratory support and intensive nursing care.
Associated with Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (e.g., O157:H7), especially with the use of antibiotics.
Characterized by microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, acute renal failure, and thrombocytopenia.
Treatment is generally supportive with dialysis as needed; platelet transfusion may worsen outcome.
May follow acute gastroenteritis.
Characterized by abdominal bloating or pain relieved by defecation and associated with change in stool frequency and/or consistency, without evidence of alarm signs or symptoms, for a total duration of symptoms over 6 months.
An acute, autoimmune, polyradiculoneuropathy affecting the peripheral nervous system, usually triggered by an acute infectious process (particularly, associated with Campylobacter infection). It is frequently severe and usually exhibits as an ascending paralysis noted by weakness in the legs that spreads to the upper limbs and the face, along with complete loss of deep tendon reflexes. With prompt treatment of plasmapheresis followed by immunoglobulins and supportive care, the majority of patients will regain full functional capacity. However, death may occur if severe pulmonary complications and dysautonomia are present.
An autoimmune condition that develops in response to a bout of food poisoning or a gastrointestinal infection, in particular with the following species: Shigella, Yersinia, and Campylobacter.
Symptoms generally appear within 1 to 3 weeks, but can range from 4 to 35 days from the onset of the inciting episode of the disease.
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