Skin and Soft Tissue Infections 2

Question 1

What is toxic shock syndrome (TSS)

Answer 1

• A rare but life-threatening condition caused by bacteria releasing harmful toxins.
• Often associated with tampon use in young women, but it can affect anyone of any age
• TSS gets worse very quickly and can be fatal if not treated promptly. But if diagnosed and treated early on, most people will make a full recovery.

Question 2

Signs and symptoms of TSS

Answer 2

• Fever
• Hypotension
• Diffuse macular rash
• 3 of the following organs involved; Liver, blood, renal, GI, CNS and muscular

Question 3

What has a higher mortality rate; Streptococcal TSS or Staphylococcal TSS

Answer 3

Streptococcal (50% vs 5%)

Question 4

Treatment for TSS

Answer 4

• Urgent surgical debridement of infected tissues
• Antibiotics
• IV Fluids
• Removal of offending agent (e.g. tampon)
• IV immunoglobulins
• Inotropes