| Clinical
Features |
Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is characterized
by sudden onset of fever, chills, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle
aches and rash. It can rapidly progress to severe and intractable
hypotension and multisystem dysfunction. Desquamation, particularly
on the palms and soles can occur 1-2 weeks after onset of
the illness. |
| Etiologic
Agent |
Usually exotoxin producing strains
of Staphylococcus aureus, a bacterium. |
| Incidence |
In the United States, annual incidence
is 1-2/100,000 women 15-44 years of age (last active surveillance
done in 1987). |
| Sequelae |
5% of all cases are fatal. |
| Transmission |
S. aureus commonly colonizes
skin and mucous membranes in humans. TSS has been associated
with use of tampons and intravaginal contraceptive devices
in women and occurs as a complication of skin abscesses or
surgery. |
| Risk
Groups |
Menstruating women, women using
barrier contraceptive devices, persons who have undergone
nasal surgery, and persons with postoperative staphylococcal
wound infections. |
| Surveillance |
National surveillance is conducted
through the National Electronic Telecommunications System
for Surveillance (NETSS). The last active surveillance was
in 1987 in four states with a total population of 12 million.
|
| Challenges |
To describe the current epidemiology
of TSS in the United States by conducting active surveillance.
To better define the risk factors of nonmenstrual TSS to design
prevention strategies. |
|
December 2003
|
