Case of the Month #33 Toxic Shock Syndrome

Published 12/08/2022

What are the possible complications?

ARDS, haemolytic anaemia, renal failure, and DIC (disseminated intravascular coagulation) are all common complications. General intensive-care related complications may also occur, including venous thromboembolism, stress ulceration, critical care weakness and nosocomial infection. Rarer complications include Waterhouse-Freidrich syndrome.  

The prognosis is varied according to causative organism. Streptococcal TSS carries a mortality of up to 80% whereas Staphylococcal TSS is between 2 and 5%.