Thank you Taylor and thank you Dr Burwick! What is it exactly that it’s expected to be different in the kidney biopsy of a woman with aHUS vs a woman with HELLP? Is it always possible to get to a definitive diagnosis through a kidney biopsy?
hi Marta, sorry for the long delay, I missed your question. In the setting of aHUS, there is usually evidence of thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) on kidney biopsy. This finding wouldn't be expected in the setting of preeclampsia or HELLP syndrome. While the kidney biopsy does not always provide a definitive diagnosis, the finding of TMA supports the diagnosis of aHUS, especially if it was already suspected clinically. Hope that helps!
Thank you Taylor and thank you Dr Burwick! What is it exactly that it’s expected to be different in the kidney biopsy of a woman with aHUS vs a woman with HELLP? Is it always possible to get to a definitive diagnosis through a kidney biopsy?
hi Marta, sorry for the long delay, I missed your question. In the setting of aHUS, there is usually evidence of thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) on kidney biopsy. This finding wouldn't be expected in the setting of preeclampsia or HELLP syndrome. While the kidney biopsy does not always provide a definitive diagnosis, the finding of TMA supports the diagnosis of aHUS, especially if it was already suspected clinically. Hope that helps!
Amazing info from the true experts - well done!
Thanks Zach!
Dr Burwick is an incredible and fearless advocate for women with pregnancy-related aHUS. I wish there were more like him!
He’s really the best!
thank you Nikola!