Toxic Shock Syndrome | Symptoms & Causes
What causes toxic shock syndrome?
TSS is typically caused by one of two types of bacteria: Staphylococcus aureus (commonly called “staph”) and Streptococcus pyogenes (commonly called “strep”). These bacteria are common in our bodies and do not usually cause problems. In rare cases, the bacteria and/or their toxins can enter the bloodstream and can cause TSS.
TSS caused by staphylococcus aureus:
- can occur after a tampon is left in too long, although manufacturing changes in tampons have reduced the incidence of tampon-induced TSS significantly
- may occur from another infection such as pneumonia, sinusitis, or osteomyelitis (infection in the bone)
- may occur in the setting of a skin or soft-tissue infection from a wound, burn, or surgical cut
TSS caused by streptococcus pyogenes:
- is most commonly seen in people who have recently had chickenpox, bacterial cellulitis (infection of the skin and underlying tissue), or have recently given birth, had surgery, or suffered a minor cut or wounds
- can sometimes can present like a severe flu with nausea and high fever and chills with body aches
What are the signs and symptoms of toxic shock?
While symptoms may vary from child to child, the most common symptoms are listed below. It can look like a severe flu. Symptoms overlap between the two types of TSS, but a medical doctor can help distinguish the two infections with blood tests.
For staphylococcal TSS:
- high fever
- chills
- malaise (uneasiness and despair)
- headache
- fatigue
- a red, flat rash that covers most of the areas of the body
- low blood pressure
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- muscle pain
- increased blood flow to mouth, eyes, and vagina, making them appear red
- decreased urine output and sediment in urine
- decreased liver function
- bruising
- disorientation and confusion
- eventual sloughing of the skin (especially the palms and soles) one to two weeks after the onset of symptoms
For streptococcal TSS:
- low blood pressure
- decreased kidney function
- bleeding problems
- bruising
- red, flat rash that covers large areas of the body
- decreased liver function
- decreased urine output and sediment in urine
- difficulty breathing
- eventual sloughing of the skin (especially the palms and soles) one to two weeks after the onset of symptoms
Toxic Shock Syndrome | Diagnosis & Treatments
Is there a specific test to diagnose TSS?
There is no one test, but it’s critical to rule out other illness that look like TSS. Diagnostic tests may include:
- blood cultures
- blood tests
- urine tests
- wound cultures if indicated
- lumbar puncture (spinal tap)
How do we treat toxic shock syndrome?
If you or your child has TSS, hospitalization will likely be needed. Treatment for TSS may include:
- intravenous (IV) antibiotics
- intravenous (IV) fluids
- cardiac medications (if blood pressure is very low)
- dialysis (for children who develop kidney failure)
- administration of blood products
- supplemental oxygen or mechanical ventilation (to assist with breathing)
- deep surgical cleaning of an infected wound
- consultation with an infectious diseases specialist
Can toxic shock syndrome be prevented?
The following may help prevent TSS:
- If you've had TSS before, avoid using tampons, as reinfection is common.
- Clean and take care of any wounds immediately.
- Keep vaginal foreign body items (diaphragms, tampons, sponges) to a minimum
When using tampons:
- Use care when inserting tampons. Wash your hands before inserting or taking out your tampon. Make sure your fingernails are not sharp or jagged (to avoid tearing your skin).
- Change your tampons at least every four to six hours, or more often if necessary.
- Choose the correct tampon absorbency. When your menstrual flow is lighter, use smaller-sized tampons. TSS occurs more often when super-absorbent tampons are used. Don't use these unless your flow is extremely heavy.
- Alternate between pad and tampon use if possible.
- Don't use tampons to absorb anything other than your menstrual flow.
