Final answer:
Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS) is a life-threatening condition in children caused by EHEC, a type of E. coli that produces Shiga toxin leading to bloody diarrhea, kidney damage, and potential hypovolemic shock.
Step-by-step explanation:
The life-threatening condition of E. coli in children is known as Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS). The type of E. coli infection that can have severe and life-threatening consequences such as HUS is EHEC (Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli). This pathogenic strain of E. coli can cause a range of symptoms from mild to severe, including bloody diarrhea with severe cramping. In the absence of fever, one might misjudge the severity of the infection. EHEC is particularly dangerous because it produces Shiga toxin, which can lead to a variety of complications, including the destruction of red blood cells and, ultimately, kidney failure. In severe cases, the toxins can cause a clog in the capillaries of the kidney leading to HUS, which may result in reversible kidney failure, although some patients might experience long-term kidney issues.
A significant concern with EHEC infections is the risk of hypovolemic shock in young children, which can occur as a result of severe diarrhea or vomiting, leading to a drastic drop in blood volume. It is important to be vigilant about food sources as outbreaks can be sourced back to contaminated foods such as uncooked vegetables, undercooked meat, and untreated water.