Hemorrhagic Fever With Renal Syndrome (HFRS)

Hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) is a dangerous disease caused by a virus that enters the human body through various routes, including food, air, and contact with infected rodents. The disease occurs with severe symptoms of intoxication, hemorrhagic syndrome and kidney damage.

The first symptoms of HFRS appear during the febrile period, when body temperature rises sharply to 39-40°C and remains at a high level for 5-6 days. During this period, the patient complains of a painful headache in the temple area. On the 2-3rd day, a petechial rash appears on the chest, neck and armpits. The rash occurs in stripes, resembling a “whiplash.”

From the 3-4th day of illness, the oliguric period begins, when diuresis begins to decrease, reaching 300-500 ml, and in severe cases anuria occurs. Pain appears in the lower back; upon palpation, the kidneys are enlarged. The hemostatic system is disrupted: hemorrhages in the sclera, nasal and gastrointestinal bleeding occur.

An increase in leukocytes and ESR (40-60 mm/h), and a decrease in platelets are detected in the blood. Massive proteinuria (20-110 g/l) is noted in the urine.

From the 9th to the 13th day, diuresis increases, and a polyuric period begins. The patient's condition improves, headaches and lower back pain decrease, and appetite appears. Daily diuresis increases to 5-7 liters, night urination is noted. This period is characterized by isohyposthenuria - the production of low-density urine, which does not change throughout the day. If the loss of fluid is not replenished, dehydration of the body develops: the patient is tormented by thirst, weakness, shortness of breath and palpitations that occur with the slightest physical exertion. The period of polyuria lasts 10-12 days.

Finally, starting from the 20-24th day of illness, the biochemical parameters of urine and blood return to normal, and the filtration capacity of the kidneys is restored. Cases of recurrent disease are rare, since persistent immunity is formed after suffering HFRS.

To prevent HFRS infection, it is necessary to observe good hygiene and care when handling rodents. If you notice the symptoms described above in yourself or someone close to you, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Treatment of HFRS is based on maintaining vital body functions, controlling hemorrhagic syndrome and balancing fluids and electrolytes. The use of specific antiviral drugs is not yet widely used in clinical practice.

In conclusion, hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) is a dangerous disease caused by a virus, occurring with severe symptoms of intoxication, hemorrhagic syndrome and kidney damage. To prevent infection, it is necessary to observe hygiene rules and caution when handling rodents. If symptoms appear, you should immediately consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.