infectious diseases
Infection by Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Other Enterohemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC)
Pathophysiology
After ingestion,E. coliO157:H7 and similar STEC serotypes produce high levels of various toxins in the large intestine; these toxins are closely related to the potent cytotoxins produced byShigella dysenteriaetype 1. These toxins appear to directly damage mucosal cells and vascular endothelial cells in the gut wall. If absorbed, they exert toxic effects on other vascular endothelia (eg, renal). 60 years) are complicated by Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP) , which typically develops in the 2nd week of illness. Death may occur, especially in older people, with or without this complication. 