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Toxic shock syndrome - MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia
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Toxic shock syndrome

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Normal uterine anatomy (cut section)
Normal uterine anatomy (cut section)

Alternative Names    Return to top

Staphylococcal toxic shock syndrome

Definition    Return to top

Toxic shock syndrome is a severe disease that involves fever, shock, and problems with the function of several body organs.

Causes    Return to top

Toxic shock syndrome is caused by a toxin produced by certain types of Staphylococcus bacteria. A similar syndrome, called toxic shock-like syndrome (TSLS), can be caused by Streptococcal bacteria.

Although the earliest described cases of toxic shock syndrome involved women who were using tampons during their periods (menstruation), just slightly over half of current cases are associated with such events. Toxic shock syndrome can also occur in children, postmenopausal women, and men.

Risk factors include:

Symptoms    Return to top

Exams and Tests    Return to top

No single test can diagnose toxic shock syndrome. The diagnosis is based on several criteria: fever, low blood pressure, a rash that peels after 1-2 weeks, and problems with the function of at least three organs. In some cases, blood cultures may be positive for growth of S. aureus.

Treatment    Return to top

Any foreign materials, such as tampons, vaginal sponges, or nasal packing, will be removed. Sites of infection (such as a surgical wound) will be drained.

The goal of treatment is to maintain important body functions. This may include:

Outlook (Prognosis)    Return to top

Toxic shock syndrome may be deadly in up to 50% of cases. The condition may return in those that survive.

Possible Complications    Return to top

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

Toxic shock syndrome is a medical emergency. You must seek immediate attention if you develop fever or rash, particularly during menstruation and tampon use, or if you have had recent surgery.

Prevention    Return to top

Menstrual toxic shock syndrome can be prevented by avoiding the use of highly absorbent tampons. You can reduce your risk by changing tampons more frequently and using tampons only once in a while (not regularly) during menstruation.

References    Return to top

Hans D, Kelly E, Wilhelmson K, Katz ED. Rapidly Fatal Infections. Emerg Med Clin North Am. 2008 May;26(2):259-79, vii.

Todd JK. Toxic Shock Syndrome. In: Long SS, Pickering LK, Prober CG, eds. Principles and Practice of Pediatric Infectious Diseases. 2nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Churchill Livingstone; 2003:chap 13.

Update Date: 9/3/2008

Updated by: D. Scott Smith, M.D., MSc, DTM&H, Chief of Infectious Disease & Geographic Medicine, Kaiser Redwood City, CA & Adjunct Assistant Professor, Stanford University.  Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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