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Toxic shock syndrome   

Overview | Symptoms | Treatment | Prevention

Alternative names:

TSS; Staphylococcal toxic shock syndrome

Definition:

A severe, Staphylococcus aureus toxin-mediated disease which is characterized by shock and multiple organ dysfunction.

Causes and Risks

Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is caused by a toxin produced by certain types of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. While the earliest described cases involved mostly menstruating women using highly absorbent tampons, only 55% of current cases are associated with menses. This illness may also occur in children and in men. Risk factors include recent menstruation, recent use of barrier contraceptives such as diaphragms and vaginal sponges, vaginal tampon use (especially prolonged), recent child birth, recent surgery, and current Staphylococcus aureus infection.

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