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Toxic shock syndrome

Definition:

Toxic shock syndrome is a severe disease that involves fever, shock , and problems with the function of several body organs.

Alternative Names:

TSS; Staphylococcal toxic shock syndrome

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) 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 Streptococcus bacteria.)

Although the earliest described cases of TSS involved women who were using tampons during their periods (menstruation), only 55% of current cases are associated with menstruation. Toxic shock syndrome can also occur in children, postmenopausal women, and men.

Risk factors include:

References:

Rakel P. Conn ’s Current Therapy 2006 . 58th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders; 2006:103-106.

Goldman L, Ausiello D. Cecil Textbook of Medicine , 22nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders; 2004:1785-1786.

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