American Medical Association Family Medical Guide - American Medical Association [646]
Toxic Shock Syndrome
Toxic shock syndrome is a rare condition that can develop when staphylococcal or streptococcal bacteria release toxins into the bloodstream. Toxic shock syndrome caused by staphylococcal bacteria was linked in the early 1980s to the use of superabsorbent tampons, which were then taken off the market. In rare cases, toxic shock syndrome can result when streptococcal bacteria (which are ordinarily found on the skin) infect a skin wound or surgical incision. Toxic shock syndrome, when severe, can lead to a life-threatening drop in blood pressure that, if not treated promptly, can lead to shock (see page 162) and be fatal.
Symptoms
Symptoms of toxic shock syndrome caused by staphylococcal bacteria appear suddenly and include high fever, vomiting and diarrhea, and a sunburnlike rash over the entire body. Other symptoms include bright red eyes and throat, headaches and muscle aches, and confusion. The rash may peel as it heals.
Symptoms of toxic shock syndrome caused by streptococcal bacteria usually appear 2 to 3 days after exposure to the bacteria. Symptoms of a skin infection caused by streptococcal bacteria include oozing pus from the site of the infection, and pain, redness, and a feeling of heat around the infected area.
Blood Poisoning
If the blood becomes infected with bacteria that your immune system can destroy easily (such as from routine dental procedures, minor skin infections, or a small puncture wound), the condition is called bacteremia. Blood poisoning is a life-threatening infection that is caused by the rapid spread of bacteria (septicemia) and their toxins (toxemia) in the bloodstream. Symptoms of blood poisoning include fever, chills, loss of appetite, and fatigue. A blood test can help identify the type of bacteria that is causing the infection. Antibiotics are the usual treatment. Large numbers of bacteria or their toxins in the bloodstream may cause a potentially fatal condition called septic shock, in which low blood pressure and low blood flow can cause vital organs such as the liver, kidneys, heart, or brain to malfunction or fail.I.
If you have symptoms of toxic shock syndrome, call your doctor, 911 or your local emergency number, or go to the nearest hospital emergency department immediately.
Diagnosis
To diagnose toxic shock syndrome, a doctor takes a detailed health history and orders blood tests to check for abnormalities in the liver and kidneys and to rule out other possible illnesses. He or she may also test a sample of fluid from any pus-filled sores (boils) on the skin or infected cuts.
Treatment
Treatment for toxic shock syndrome requires a stay in a hospital. You will be given fluids intravenously (through a vein) and an antibiotic. Your blood pressure and the function of your liver, kidneys, and other vital organs will be closely monitored. If toxic shock syndrome is caused by a skin infection such as a boil or abscess, your doctor may drain the infected area. If toxic shock syndrome develops after surgery, a person will need to return to the hospital so the doctor can determine the cause and remove any dead tissue if necessary.
Infestations and Diseases Spread by Insect and Animal Bites
Infestations occur when parasites invade your body and live either on it (as lice do) or in it (as tapeworms do). Parasites that live on the skin usually cause no symptoms other than discomfort. Some parasites, such as ticks, can cause infections because they can carry disease-causing microorganisms. Parasites that live inside the body may go undetected because they sometimes cause vague symptoms that often go unnoticed. However, if parasites lodge in a