It is most common in menstruating women using highly absorbent tampons and occurs within 5 days of the onset of a menstrual period. The syndrome has also been seen in children, infants, and men. The incidence of the disease is approximately 2 out of 10,000 people annually. Risk factors include recent menstruation, recent use of barrier contraceptive, recent child birth, recent surgery, and prior Staphylococcus aureus infection. The manifestations of shock are treated by intravenous fluid and blood pressure support.
Hospitalization is required for the management of shock.
Toxic shock may recur. Women who have had this disorder should not use tampons. Call your health care provider if TSS symptoms occur, especially in conjunction with menstruation and tampon use.