Nonobstructive anuria in children: hemolytic uremic syndrome.

The hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) must be considered as a cause of oligo-anuria in a previously healthy young child. This syndrome consists of a viral-like prodromal illness, followed by acute renal failure, thrombocytopenia, and an abnormal blood smear with fragmented erythrocytes. Awareness of this syndrome will permit earlier diagnosis and management and will minimize unneccessary investigation in the anuric child.