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What Body Systems are Affected by E. Coli?

Escherichia coli O157:H7 is the most recognized strain of the microorganism that can cause illness in humans, generally from foodborne sources. Referred to as E.coli, the bug produces toxins that damage or injure several of the body's systems:

  1. Gasterointestinal

    • Ingestion of contaminated food is the primary exposure to E. coli. In the intestine, the bacteria generate toxins that irritate and eventually damage intestinal lining, causing hemolytic or hemorrhagic colitis. This degeneration of tissue results in sudden and painful abdominal cramping and copious bloody diarrhea, which can last for more than a week. Fever is usually absent.

    Renal

    • The renal system, namely the kidneys, can also be affected by E.coli. Mainly in children, hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) develops as a complication of infection and can be deadly. The name refers to the hemolysis, or breaking down, of red blood cells. The fragments of these cells clog the tubules of the kidneys, rendering them unable to properly rid the body of urine, and leads to uremia, or kidney failure.

    Circulatory

    • A condition similar to HUS, thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) can also develop from E.coli infection. Often affecting the elderly, TTP presents as an anemia with further complications such as fever, low platelets, central nervous system symptoms and renal failure. The mortality rate for TTP can be as high as 50 percent.

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