Differential Diagnosis for 3 yo with Stool Positive for E. coli and Norovirus
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS): This condition is characterized by the triad of hemolytic anemia, acute kidney injury, and thrombocytopenia (low platelets). The presence of E. coli, particularly Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC), is a common cause of HUS, especially in children. The elevated alkaline phosphatase and abnormal renal labs support this diagnosis, as HUS can lead to kidney damage and dysfunction.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP): Although less common in children and more often associated with other pathogens or conditions, TTP could present with thrombocytopenia and renal involvement. However, it typically includes a pentad of symptoms (thrombocytopenia, microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, renal failure, neurological symptoms, and fever), and the presence of E. coli and norovirus makes HUS more likely.
- Severe Gastroenteritis with Secondary Complications: Both E. coli and norovirus can cause severe gastroenteritis. In rare cases, this can lead to complications such as dehydration severe enough to cause acute kidney injury, which could explain the elevated renal labs. However, the low platelets and elevated alkaline phosphatase are less typical for simple gastroenteritis.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Severe Sepsis or Septic Shock: Although the primary pathogens identified are gastrointestinal, severe infection can lead to a systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) that affects multiple organ systems, including the kidneys and hematologic system. Missing sepsis could be fatal, and the presence of two pathogens increases the risk of severe infection.
- Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC): This is a condition characterized by both widespread clotting and bleeding in the vascular system. It can be triggered by severe infection and could explain the low platelets and elevated alkaline phosphatase. DIC is a medical emergency and requires prompt recognition and treatment.
Rare Diagnoses
- Atypical HUS (aHUS): This is a rare condition that presents similarly to HUS but is not typically associated with an infectious trigger like E. coli. Instead, it is often related to genetic mutations affecting the complement system. The presence of norovirus and E. coli makes this less likely, but it remains a consideration, especially if HUS is suspected but STEC is not identified.
- Systemic Vasculitis: Conditions like Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) can present with gastrointestinal symptoms, renal involvement, and thrombocytopenia. However, they are less likely given the specific pathogens identified and the age of the patient.