a type of protein that occurs naturally in the body. It helps break up a different protein that can help produce clots. An ADAMTS13 test can identify patients with TTP because they have low levels of ADAMTS13. aHUS patients have normal or only slightly reduced levels

something that is irregular; an unusual type atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (aHUS): a disease of the blood that causes low red blood cell and platelet counts, kidney failure, and damage to other vital organs, such as the heart and brain

the lower part of the large intestine

a network of proteins and enzymes that interact with each other to protect the body against foreign substances, like bacteria and other invading organisms. aHUS is a disease in which the complement system has trouble figuring out who is “one of us” and who is “one of them”

a chemical excreted by the kidneys which, when measured, shows whether the kidneys are functioning properly

a treatment for kidney failure. Normally, the kidneys work to filter the blood and remove waste, excess salt, and water. Kidney failure, also called “end-stage renal disease,” occurs when the kidneys stop working completely. During hemodialysis, a machine takes over the job of the kidney by filtering the blood outside of the body, and then returnin [..]

bacteria that normally exist in the lower intestines of humans and other animals, which can cause illness

swelling of certain parts of the body due to the presence of abnormally large amounts of fluid

a protein that starts a chemical reaction within the body

a complex group of cells, proteins, and other molecules that work together to identify foreign organisms and substances, such as bacteria; the main role of the system is to protect the body against these foreign organisms