toxic shock syndrome

noun

, Pathology.

1. a rapidly developing, sometimes fatal infection characterized by sudden onset of fever, gastrointestinal upsets, a sunburnlike rash, and a drop in blood pressure: caused by a Staphylococcus aureus toxin and occurring especially in menstruating women using high-absorbency tampons. : TSS

toxic shock syndrome

noun

1. a potentially fatal condition, characterized by fever, stomachache, a painful rash, and a drop in blood pressure, that is caused by staphylococcal blood poisoning. In women it is most commonly caused by a retained tampon during menstruation

toxic shock syndrome

/ tŏk′sĭk /

1. An acute infection characterized by high fever, a sunburnlike rash, vomiting, and diarrhea, followed in severe cases by shock, that is caused by a toxin-producing strain of the common bacterium Staphylococcus aureus. It occurs chiefly among menstruating women who use tampons.

Word History and Origins

Origin of toxic shock syndrome¹

First recorded in 1975–80

Example Sentences

In the 1970s, tampons were made so absorbent that they were effective in preventing leaks but created bacterial environments that caused toxic shock syndrome, a potentially fatal infection.

From Salon

Maddy developed an infection which likely led to sepsis or toxic shock syndrome, and destruction of body tissue, and died in intensive care.

From BBC

Two of the most severe but rare forms of iGAS are necrotising fasciitis, also known as the "flesh-eating disease", and streptococcal toxic shock syndrome which can cause low blood pressure and damage to organs.

From BBC

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has asked local clinicians to promptly report cases of Group A Streptococcus, including cases of necrotizing fasciitis and streptococcal toxic shock syndrome.

From Los Angeles Times

She said she was told Skyla was suffering from toxic shock syndrome.

From BBC