Clinical Relevance
Atypical Haemolytic Uraemic Syndrome (aHUS) is characterised by systemic thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA). TMA is a pathology that results in thrombosis in capillaries and arterioles due to an endothelial injury. It may be seen in association with thrombocytopenia, anemia, purpura and renal failure.
aHUS is an extremely rare, life threatening and progressive disease that frequently has a genetic component. In most cases it is caused by chronis uncontrolled activation of the complement system.
The National aHUS Service was established in England following the NICE guideline on the use of Eculizumab for aHUS. The Coagulation laboratory diagnostics service in Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals. The aHUS service encompasses a comprehensive genetic and immunological evaluation of the complement system to facilitate diagnoses of aHUS and exclusion of TTP.
Min. Volume
The volume of blood in coagulation samples must lie within the volume range as indicated by the size of the black fill arrow present on tubes. Volumes above or below the arrow will result in sample rejection to ensure validity of results.
Turnaround Time
4 hours
Age of Sample
Samples will be rejected if received more than 1 hours post venepuncture.
Specimen Requirements
- 2 blue top (sodium citrate) samples.
- 6 purple top (EDTA) samples.
- 4 red top (PLAIN SERUM) samples.
Limitations
- It is not possible to provide results on clotted, insufficient, lipaeamic or haemolysed samples. These samples will be rejected with the appropriate comment.
- Samples tubes that have expired cannot be accepted
Analysing Laboratory
National aHUS service at the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle.