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Toxic Shock Syndrome. Mark Rocha. What is Toxic Shock Syndrome?. Toxic Shock Syndrome is a rare, often life threatening illness that results from an infection and can impact several organ systems, such as the liver, kidneys, and lungs.
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Toxic Shock Syndrome Mark Rocha
What is Toxic Shock Syndrome? Toxic Shock Syndrome is a rare, often life threatening illness that results from an infection and can impact several organ systems, such as the liver, kidneys, and lungs. The disease develops quickly, making immediate medical attention necessary. Conditions for the development of TSS include: Bacterial colonization Exotoxin production Entry portal for the bacteria There are two types: TSS, caused by Staphylococcus aureus STSS or Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome, caused by Streptococcus pyogenes.
What are the causes? TSS is caused by an infection due to the bacteria Streptococcus pyogenes and Staphylococcus aureus, which produce toxins that cause the disease. The bacteria can enter the body via open wounds, such as cuts, scrapes or other lesions of the skin.
Causes cont. • TSS, resulting from Staphylococcus aureus, is mostly associated with tampons in women, as well as other forms of birth control. • STSS, resulting from Streptococcus pyogenes, is caused by the same bacteria that causes strep throat and usually occurs in open wounds through which it can enter the body.
Symptoms TSS, when caused by Staph, occurs suddenly, causing fever symptoms such as rising temperatures around 102 degrees Fahrenheit, or 38.8 degrees Celsius, rapid drops in blood pressure, vomiting, and muscle ache. After 24 hours, a sun burn-like rash typically appears. Other symptoms may include confusion, fatigue, decrease in urination, pale skin, and rapid breathing.
Symptoms cont. STSS results after a staph infection. Within 24 hours of the infection, blood pressure drops significantly. Shares many of the symptoms of TSS (signs of fever, dizziness, rapid breathing, weak pulse, etc) A rash typically appears, especially around the hands and the feet, where peeling may occur. Redness and swelling at site of infection.
Other Complications As toxic shock syndrome develops so rapidly, it has the potential to many of the victims organ systems. Earlier signs include rash that is followed by severe peeling one to two weeks later. The victim typically enters a state of shock, experiencing a loss of blood circulation to vital organs. Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome or ARDS, where lung function decreases and breathing becomes difficult. Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC) where the clotting mechanisms in the blood become over-active and cause excessive blood clots. Kidney failure, or end-stage renal disease. When kidney damage reaches this point, treatment via dialysis or kidney transplant is necessary.
Prevention As TSS and STSS are bacterial infections, they can be prevented by frequently washing your hands, and avoiding close contact with someone who is infected. Women can reduce their risk by frequently changing tampons, or avoiding those that have high absorbencies, as they provide a survivable environment for bacteria. The best form of prevention is proper hygiene: Cleaning and bandaging any and all skin wounds as quickly as possible . You should seek treatment immediately if you experience swelling and redness around the wound, or if you experience fever symptoms.
