Toxic Shock Syndrome

Toxic shock syndrome is caused by bacterial superantigen toxins (TSST-1 from S. aureus or streptococcal pyrogenic exotoxins) that bypass normal antigen processing and activate massive T-cell proliferation. This triggers a cytokine storm causing widespread vasodilation, capillary leak, and multi-organ failure.

Risk factors: - Tampon use (prolonged, super-absorbent) - Nasal packing - Wound infections - Post-surgical infections - Skin or soft tissue infections - Burns

Diagnostics: - Expect blood cultures and wound cultures - Monitor vital signs for shock - Expect CBC, metabolic panel, liver function tests - Monitor for coagulopathy - Expect creatine kinase if myositis suspected