Staphylococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome

Question 1

What is Toxic shock?

Answer 1

severe systemic reaction to staphylococcal exotoxins

(TSST-1 superantigen toxin)

Question 2

Diagnostic criteria for toxic shock

Answer 2

fever> 38.9ºC
hypotension< 90 mmHg
diffuse erythematous rash
+ desquamation on palms/ soles

involvement of >3 organ systems:
diarrhoea/vomiting (GI)
renal failure
hepatitis
thrombocytopenia
confusion (CNS)

Question 3

Management of toxic shock

Answer 3

removal of infection focus (e.g. retained tampon)
IV fluids
IV antibiotics