infections
Toxic Shock Syndrome
Causes of Toxic Shock Syndrome
Toxic shock syndrome results from toxins produced by two types of bacteria: Staphylococcus aureus Infections None Streptococcal Infections None This syndrome may occur whenStaphylococcus aureusinfects tissue (for example, in a wound) or is simply growing on a tampon (especially the superabsorbent type) in the vagina. Exactly why superabsorbent tampons increase the risk of this syndrome is unknown. Leaving a diaphragm in the vagina for more than 24 hours increases the risk slightly. Toxic shock syndrome caused by group A streptococci usually occurs in people who have infection of skin or of tissues under the skin. About half of people with this syndrome have a bloodstream infection ( Bacteremia ), and about half have Toxic shock syndrome may also occur in the following situations: When a surgical incision is infected, even when the infection seems minor When the uterus becomes infected after delivery of a baby After nose surgery if bandages are used to pack the nose In otherwise healthy people who have a group A streptococcal tissue infection, usually of the skin 