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Toxic Shock Syndrome
Medical Questions » Toxic Shock Syndrome
| Name: Toxic Shock Syndrome |
| Also known as: |
| Rare syndrome that usually affects women in which a toxin (poison) damages tissue. |
Causes of Toxic Shock Syndrome
Toxin released by the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus (golden staph). May occur after confinement, using contraceptive diaphragms, gynecological surgery, with an abscess, or as a complication of influenza. More than 90% of cases are associated with the use of menstrual tampons. The blood-soaked material in a tampon may become invaded by the bacteria, which release the toxin into the bloodstream through the vaginal wall. The woman herself is not infected by the bacteria. |
Symptoms of Toxic Shock Syndrome
Fever, widespread red rash, headache, muscle aches, vomiting, diarrhoea and dangerously low blood pressure. |
Tests for Toxic Shock Syndrome
Numerous blood tests performed in an attempt to identify the cause and monitor progress. No specific diagnostic test available. |
Treatment for Toxic Shock Syndrome
Injected steroids, kidney dialysis (artificial kidney machine), blood transfusions and antibiotics in a hospital intensive care unit.
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Complications of Toxic Shock Syndrome of its treatment
Low blood pressure may threaten the blood supply to the brain, liver, kidney and other vital organs, and eventually causes them to fail. |
Likely Outcome of Toxic Shock Syndrome
Overall mortality rate is 15%. |
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