Finding into death of Child A

3y · Male·thrombotic microangiopathy

A 3-year-old child died from thrombotic microangiopathy (haemolytic uraemic syndrome) secondary to Shiga toxin-producing E. coli infection, likely acquired from consumption of unpasteurised milk. Early presentation to GP with gastroenteritis was appropriately managed with supportive care. Hospital management at Frankston Hospital was appropriate, with escalation of care when symptoms worsened, including infectious disease consultation, IV fluids, and antibiotics. While earlier clinical review on the afternoon of 6 October would have been desirable, vital signs remained stable until 5:20pm, and clinical evidence suggests earlier intervention would not have changed the outcome. HUS is rare, has rapid onset, and lacks preventive or curative treatment. The clinicians involved in the child's care provided reasonable and appropriate management throughout.