Final answer:
The type of E. coli responsible for Haemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS) is enterohemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC), particularly the strain O157:H7. This strain produces a potent Shiga toxin that can lead to severe complications including kidney failure. Diagnosis involves special culture methods, with supportive care being the main treatment strategy as antibiotics may worsen the condition.
Step-by-step explanation:
The type of E. coli that can result in severe, life-threatening conditions like Haemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS) is known as enterohemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC). This group of E. coli strains, particularly EHEC strain O157:H7, is notorious for causing outbreaks and producing a deadly Shiga toxin. The Shiga toxin, also referred to as verotoxin, is highly potent and causes significant health problems. Once released inside the body, it interferes with protein synthesis in cells, leading to cell death and resulting in bloody diarrhea and severe complications, including HUS. HUS affects kidney function and can result in kidney failure, which is often associated with bloody diarrhea and no fever prior.
Unlike other E. coli strains, EHEC does not ferment sorbitol, which is helpful during diagnosis. Laboratories utilize sorbitol-containing MacConkey agar for distinguishing between the O157:H7 strain and other less virulent varieties. Furthermore, serological typing, PCR, and genetic testing for Shiga toxin play pivotal roles in identifying EHEC infections. It's critical to note that while both EHEC and EPEC strains form pedestals on the intestinal epithelial cells, EHEC contains the gene for Shiga toxin, unlike EPEC.
Therapeutic strategies emphasize supportive care rather than antibiotic therapy, which could exacerbate HUS due to the release of toxins upon bacterial death. Awareness of these pathology facets is crucial when eating raw vegetables or undercooked meats, typical sources of EHEC contamination, as emphasized by past outbreaks.