The disease is now known to also exist in men, neonates, and nonmenstruating women. TSS has been linked to many bacterial infections, including pneumonia, osteomyelitis, sinusitis, and skin and gynecologic infections. Almost every organ system can be involved, including the cardiovascular, renal, skin, mucosa, GI, musculoskeletal, hepatic, hematologic, and central nervous systems. Since then, the rate has persistently declined, largely because of a decrease in the use of superabsorbent tampons. With streptococcal TSS, the prevalence is not well known, but it is estimated to be 10-20 cases per 100,000 population.
Mortality varies with the bacteria involved.
With staphylococcal TSS, the incidence is greater in women than in men. With streptococcal TSS, either sex can be affected. With staphylococcal TSS, patients primarily are aged 15-35 years. With streptococcal TSS, patients primarily are aged 20-50 years. An association of TSS with prior use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs has been suggested, but a causal relationship has not been established.