Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome is caused by:

Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS) is a serious condition characterized primarily by the combination of hemolytic anemia, acute kidney failure, and low platelet count. The primary cause of HUS is indeed an infection with Escherichia coli O157:H7, a type of bacteria that produces a potent toxin known as Shiga toxin. This toxin can damage blood vessels, leading to the symptoms associated with HUS.

When individuals consume contaminated food or water containing E. coli O157:H7, the bacteria can produce this toxin in the intestines, which then enters the bloodstream and can affect the kidneys, resulting in acute kidney injury. The interaction of the toxin with the endothelial cells of the blood vessels is critical in the development of HUS. This link emphasizes the importance of safe food practices to prevent such infections.

Other options like mental stress or a virus do not directly cause HUS, as the syndrome is a specific complication following the pathogenic effects of certain bacterial infections, particularly from the mentioned strain of E. coli. Listeriosis, caused by Listeria monocytogenes, is also unrelated to HUS despite being a serious foodborne illness. Thus, understanding the infectious pathways leading to conditions like HUS is crucial