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Updated: May 12, 2026

Development of Obliterative Bronchiolitis in a Murine Model of Orthotopic Lung Transplantation
Published on: July 10, 2012
[Thrombotic microangiopathy as a rare complication after lung transplantation]
Mehmet Can Sayar1, Laura Pott2, Stephanie Damm3
1Klinik für Pneumologie, Universitätsspital Zürich, Zürich.
Introduction:
Thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) is defined by the typical triad of severe thrombocytopenia, hemolytic anemia and endorgan dysfunction and can be characterized by the pathophysiology of ischemia-inducing microthrombi in arterioles and capillaries possibly leading to severe organ dysfunction up to acutely life-threatening endorgan damage. In terms of etiology, management, therapy and prognosis, the following manifestations are distinguished: thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), shigatoxin-induced hemolytic-uremic syndrome (STEC-HUS), secondary comorbidity-related TMA and atypical hemolytic-uremic syndrome (aHUS). We present the case of a 49 year old lung transplant recipient developing aHUS. The complexity of the underlying pathomechanisms of TMA, the complicated differentiation of each TMA manifestation and the complex management of aHUS in the post-transplant setting illustrate the uniqueness of this patient case.
Insights
Atypical hemolytic-uremic syndrome (aHUS) is a rare condition causing organ damage. This case highlights the challenges of diagnosing and managing aHUS in lung transplant recipients.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Transplant Medicine
- Hematology
Background:
- Thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) presents with thrombocytopenia, hemolytic anemia, and organ dysfunction due to microthrombi.
- TMA encompasses thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), Shiga toxin-induced hemolytic uremic syndrome (STEC-HUS), secondary TMA, and atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS).
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a unique case of atypical hemolytic-uremic syndrome (aHUS) in a lung transplant recipient.
- To illustrate the complexities in diagnosing and managing TMA in the post-transplant setting.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a 49-year-old lung transplant recipient.
- Review of diagnostic challenges and management strategies for TMA and aHUS.
Main Results:
- The patient developed aHUS post-lung transplantation.
- The case underscores the difficulties in differentiating TMA subtypes and managing aHUS in immunocompromised patients.
Conclusions:
- Atypical hemolytic-uremic syndrome (aHUS) poses significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges in lung transplant recipients.
- Early recognition and tailored management are crucial for improving outcomes in post-transplant TMA.
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