A novel strategy for hemolytic uremic syndrome: successful treatment with thrombomodulin α

Pediatrics. 2013 Mar;131(3):e928-33. doi: 10.1542/peds.2012-1466. Epub 2013 Feb 4.

Abstract

Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) is a life-threatening infectious disease in childhood for which there is no confirmed therapeutic strategy. Endothelial inflammation leading to microthrombosis formation via complement activation is the main pathology of HUS. Thrombomodulin is an endothelial membrane protein that has anticoagulation and anti-inflammatory effects, including the suppression of complement activity. Recombinant human soluble thrombomodulin (rTM) is a novel therapeutic medicine for disseminated intravascular coagulation. We administered rTM to 3 patients with HUS for 7 days and investigated the outcomes in view of the patients' prognoses, changes in biochemical markers, complications, and adverse effects of rTM. Symptoms and laboratory data improved after initiation of rTM in all 3 patients. Abnormal activation of complements was also dramatically suppressed in 1 patient. The patients recovered without any complications or adverse effects of rTM. They were discharged having normal neurologic status and with no renal dysfunction. To our knowledge, this is the first report of rTM being used to treat HUS. These case reports show the positive effect of rTM in patients with HUS. Randomized controlled studies should be performed to assess the efficacy and safety of rTM for children with HUS.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Female
  • Hemolytic-Uremic Syndrome / blood
  • Hemolytic-Uremic Syndrome / diagnosis*
  • Hemolytic-Uremic Syndrome / drug therapy*
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Male
  • Recombinant Proteins / therapeutic use
  • Thrombomodulin / therapeutic use*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Recombinant Proteins
  • THBD protein, human
  • Thrombomodulin