Toxic Shock Toxic Shock SyndromeSyndrome

Staphyloccocal &

Streptococcal Origins

What is TSS?

Toxic shock syndrome (commonly referred to as TSS).

Rare, potentially life threatening disorder.

Occurs when toxins made by certain types of bacteria (S.aureus) are released into the bloodstream.

What Causes TSS?

Staphylococcus Aureus

Bacterium Clusters Spherical

What is going on in the body?

First described in children in 1978 Experts quickly realized that TSS

happened more often among women who used super absorbent tampons during their period.

The moist, humid environment of the vagina allows the bacteria to grow and produce high levels of toxins.

What are the signs and Symptoms? Usually starts suddenly and develops

quickly.

Symptoms may include the following….

Signs and Symptoms

Fever Confusion Diarrhea Dizziness or fainting Headaches Pelvic Pain Sore throat

More Signs and Symptoms

Sunburn like rash anywhere on the body, but usually on the soles of the hands and feet.

Vomiting Photophobia-discomfort

looking @ light. Myalgia-aching muscles Low blood pressure

Causes and Risks Having recently

delivered a baby. Recently had surgery Leaving a diaphragm or

cervical cap in for 36 hrs. Or longer.

Wearing the same tampon for longer than 8 hours.

Also been reported in those following nasal surgery or use of nasal packing for a nose bleed. (Rare)

Prevention

Alternate tampons with pads every other day during the heaviest flow.

Avoid or minimize use of superabsorbant tampons.

Change tampons every 6-8 hrs. Use pads while sleeping.

More Prevention

Wash hands regularly Change dressings to wounds at least

every day Keep area clean and dry Practice aseptic technique

How is it diagnosed? History and Physical exam Blood C/X (cultures) CBC (complete blood

count) Kidney Function tests Liver Function tests Spinal Tap Throat cultures U/A (urinalysis) Vaginal C/X (cultures) for

S. aureus

Treatment

Aggressive Therapy IV Antibiotics Blood Transfusions Corticosteroids Electrolyte

replacements B/P meds Ventilator if lungs

are damaged

Long Term Effects or those that increase mortality rate. Disseminated intravascular coagulation

or DIC (uncontrollable bleeding) About 30% get it again within 3 months

of the first diagnoses. Irreversible shock Severe lung damage

Survivor

13 y/o Swimmer Appeared as a bad

flu or cold Still having problems

to this day

STSS (Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome)

Same thing as TSS it’s just an infection of a surgical wound.

Tissue may become necrotic and Dr.’s may need to perform debridement (removal of dead tissue)

Thanks and Have a Great Day!

Sources: Discovery Health.com

CDC Kotex.com