toxic shock syndrome

toxic shock syndrome A life-threatening syndrome that is characterized by the sudden onset of high fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and muscle aches, followed by low blood pressure (hypotension), which can lead to shock and death. Abbreviated TSS. There may be a rash resembling sunburn, with peeling of skin. Toxic shock syndrome was originally described and still occurs especially in menstruating women using tampons. It is caused by a toxin produced by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria growing under conditions in which there is little or no oxygen. Toxic shock syndrome is less common in women who do not use tampons and in men. A related infection, streptococcal toxic shock syndrome, or STSS, is caused by streptococcus bacteria, most commonly occurring after streptococcus bacteria have invaded areas of injured skin. See also staphylococcus.