Staphylococcal toxic shock syndrome

Question 1

What is Staphylococcal toxic shock syndrome?

Answer 1

A severe systemic reaction to staphylococcal exotoxins, specifically the TSST-1 superantigen toxin.

It gained attention in the early 1980s due to cases linked to infected tampons.

Question 2

What are the CDC diagnostic criteria for Staphylococcal toxic shock syndrome?

Answer 2

1. Fever: temperature > 38.9ºC
2. Hypotension: systolic blood pressure < 90 mmHg
3. Diffuse erythematous rash
4. Desquamation of rash, especially of the palms and soles
5. Involvement of three or more organ systems (e.g. gastrointestinal, mucous membrane erythema, renal failure, hepatitis, thrombocytopenia, CNS involvement).

Question 3

What are common gastrointestinal symptoms associated with Staphylococcal toxic shock syndrome?

Answer 3

Diarrhoea and vomiting.

Question 4

What is the management for Staphylococcal toxic shock syndrome?

Answer 4

1. Removal of infection focus (e.g. retained tampon)
2. IV fluids
3. IV antibiotics.

Question 5

Answer 5

staphylococcal toxic shock syndrome