An unusual and near fatal complication of bacillary dysentery

Abstract

Haemolytic Uraemic Syndrome and thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura are the two ends of a spectrum of disease which may complicate bacillary dysentery. The aim of this presentation is to highlight the occurrence of this complication in Shigella dysentriae type 1 infection in Sri Lanka. In a study done in Bangladesh the incidence of Haemolytic Uraemic Syndrome following Bacilleary Dysentery was 8.6%. In Sri Lanka hitherto this complication of bacillary Dysentery has not received sufficient attention. We report the case of an 8 year old girl who presented with severe Haemolytic Uraemic Syndrome / Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura disease complex following Shigella Dysentery which progressed to Acute Renal Failure. After recovery from Renal failure following peritoneal dialysis, the patient developed neurological complications from which also she made good recovery.