Toxic shock syndrome

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Normal uterine anatomy (cut section)

Toxic shock syndrome is a severe disease that involves fever, shock, and problems with the function of several body organs.

TSS; Staphylococcal toxic shock syndrome

Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is caused by a toxin produced by certain types of Staphylococcus bacteria. (A similar syndrome, called toxic shock–like syndrome (TSLS), can be caused by Streptococcus bacteria.)

Although the earliest described cases of TSS involved women who were using tampons during their periods (menstruation), only 55% of current cases are associated with menstruation. Toxic shock syndrome can also occur in children, postmenopausal women, and men.

Risk factors include:

• Menstruation
• Use of barrier contraceptives such as a diaphragm or vaginal sponge
• Tampon use (particularly if you leave on in for a long time)
• Foreign bodies or packings (such as those used to stop nosebleeds)
• Childbirth
• Surgery
• Current Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) infection

Review Date: 09/06/2006
Reviewed By: Hilary M. Babcock, M.D., Medical Director of Occupational Infection Control, Barnes-Jewish and St. Louis Children's Hospitals; Instructor of Medicine, Infectious Disease Division, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.