What is Toxic Shock Syndrome?
Toxic shock syndrome is a severe disease that involves fever, shock , and problems with the function of several body organs.
Alternative names
Staphylococcal toxic shock syndrome
Causes
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. Ris...
What is Toxic Shock Syndrome?
Toxic shock syndrome is a severe disease that involves fever, shock, and problems with the function of several body organs.
Alternative names
Staphylococcal toxic shock syndrome
Causes
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:
- Childbirth
- Current Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) infection
- Foreign bodies or packings (such as those used to stop nosebleeds)
- Menstruation
- Surgery
- Tampon use (particularly if you leave on in for a long time)
- Use of barrier contraceptives such as a diaphragm or vaginal sponge
Symptoms & Signs
- Confusion
- Diarrhea
- General ill-feeling
- Headaches
- High fever, sometimes accompanied by chills
- Low blood pressure
- Muscle aches
- Nausea and vomiting
- Organ failure (usually kidneys and liver)
- Redness of eyes, mouth, throat
- Seizures
- Widespread red rash that looks like a sunburn -- skin peeling occurs 1 or 2 weeks after the rash, particularly on the palms of the hand or bottom of the feet
Exams and Tests
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.
Treatments
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:
- Antibiotics for any infection (may be given through an IV)
- Dialysis (if severe kidney problems are present)
- Fluids through a vein (IV)
- Methods to control blood pressure
Prognosis
Toxic shock syndrome may be deadly in up to 50% of cases. The condition may return in those that survive.
Possible Complications
- Severe organ dysfunction
- Shock
When to contact a medical professional
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
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
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.
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Review Date: .9/3/2008
Reviewed 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.9/3/2008
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