Toxic shock, or toxic shock syndrome, is a severe and life-threatening complication following infection. They are exposed to the development of toxic shock, among others, women who use tampons. What are the causes and symptoms of toxic shock? What is the treatment?

Toxic shock syndrome , i.e.toxic shock syndrome (TSS), is a severe systemic inflammatory reaction of the body, a complication of after bacterial infection. In the course of toxic shock, the work of several systems or organs is impaired (e.g. impaired renal function, coagulation disorders, respiratory distress syndrome), which is a life-threatening condition.

Toxic shock - causes

The cause of the toxic shock is the toxins produced by staphylococcus aureus or streptococci (specifically, lysogenic strains of group A β-hemolytic streptococci).

This syndrome occurs with a frequency of 1: 100,000 to 5: 100,000 people

Most adults have protective antibodies against toxins. Thus, adolescents and children who do not have these antibodies will be at increased risk of developing toxic shock. In addition, the probability of a toxic shock exists in:

  • menstruating women, especially those who use tampons, especially those with increased absorbency
  • women using diaphragms or vaginal sponges
  • puerperal women
  • people with staphylococcal inflammations
  • patients after surgery, injuries and burns
  • people with chronic inflammation of the airways
  • people infected with the chickenpox virus
Worth knowing

Toxic shock and tampons

Women who use tampons are more likely to develop toxic shock syndrome, especially if the tampon is left in the vagina for too long. When tampons are used, the blood cannot flow freely, which promotes the growth of bacteria (remember that bacteria naturally occur in the vaginal environment of he althy women, but they do not cause any discomfort, because the balance between "good" and "bad" bacteria "is saved).

Besides, the tampon touches the vaginal mucosa, therefore it isexposed to microdamages. Therefore, it is better to remove tampons at night and replace them with sanitary napkins, especially at the beginning of your period. In addition, check that the tampon has been removed completely (it may happen that a part of it is left in the vagina).

It's good to know that toxic shock syndrome affects one in 100,000 people. women who use tampons during their period.

Toxic shock - symptoms

Symptoms of staphylococcal toxic shockare:

  • high fever
  • lowering blood pressure
  • diffuse blotchy rash
  • exfoliation of the epidermis, especially on the palms and soles of the feet, which occurs within 1-2 weeks of the onset of the disease

Often patients also complain of symptoms suggesting flu, vomiting and diarrhea, muscle aches and headaches. Puffiness or cyanosis may appear.

Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome is similar in course to that of staphylococci, but usually occurs in people with streptococcal skin infections. Then soft tissue necrosis (e.g. necrotizing fasciitis or muscle inflammation or gangrene) occurs. However, it more often leads to the development of multiple organ failure and is burdened with higher mortality.

Worth knowing

Toxic shock - first aid

A person with toxic shock needs immediate attention. Therefore, in the event of any symptoms suggesting it, an ambulance should be called as soon as possible.

Toxic shock - diagnosis

When a toxic shock is suspected, inoculation is performed from places that are a potential source of infection, e.g. from blood, nose, throat, ear, genital tract, cerebrospinal fluid or skin.

Rapid streptococcal tests, antistreptolysin test (ASO) are also applicable.

Toxic shock - treatment

Antibiotic therapy is used to treat toxic shock. Therapy also includes intravenous irrigation, mechanical ventilation and dialysis.

Bibliography:

Buda P., Gietka P., Wieteska-Klimczak A., Smorczewska-Kiljan A., Żydak J., Wlasienko A., Michałkiewicz J.,Toxic shock syndrome with coexisting generalized vasculitis , "Rheumatology" 2012

Category:

Infectious diseases