Clinical characterization and identification of rare genetic variants in atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome: a Swedish retrospective observational study

INTRODUCTION: Complement-mediated atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) is an ultra-rare renal disease primarily caused by genetic alterations in complement proteins. The genetic work-up required for confirmation of diagnosis is complicated and not always logistically accessible. The aim of the present study was to apply a diagnostic scheme compliant with the ACMG guidelines to investigate the prevalence of complement-mediated aHUS among subjects formerly included in a retrospective cohort of clinically suspected aHUS. Clinical outcomes and genetic correlations to complement analyses were assessed.

METHODS: Subjects were investigated with medical record reviewing, inquiries and laboratory analyses composed of whole genome sequencing; ELISA for factor I, factor H and factor H-specific antibodies; nephelometry for complement components 3/4; flow cytometry for CD46 surface expression and immunoblotting for the presence of factor H-related protein 1.

RESULTS: In total, 45% (n=60/134) of the subjects were deceased at the time of study. Twenty of the eligible subjects consented to study participation. Based on genetic sequencing and clinical characteristics, six were categorized as definite/highly suspected complement-mediated aHUS, ten as non-complement-mediated aHUS and four as having an HUS-like phenotype. In the complement-mediated aHUS group, two subjects had not received an aHUS diagnosis during the routine clinical management. Disease-contributing/likely disease-contributing genetic variants were identified in five subjects, including a novel missense variant in the complement factor H gene (c.3450A>G,p.I1150M).

CONCLUSION: The study illustrates the risk for misdiagnosis in the management of patients with complement-mediated aHUS and the importance of a comprehensive assessment of both phenotype and genotype to reach a diagnosis. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.