What should you know about superantigen toxic shock syndrome?

Some strains of bacteria release toxins that activate a large number of immune cells at once. This can trigger widespread inflammation, a sudden fall in blood pressure, and injury to organs. Toxic shock syndrome can develop in connection with an infected wound, surgery, vaginal infection, or menstrual products, but the source is not always obvious.

Symptoms can include sudden fever, vomiting or diarrhoea, severe muscle aches, headache, dizziness, confusion, a widespread rash, and extreme weakness. The illness may worsen quickly, so waiting to see whether symptoms settle is unsafe.

Call emergency services or go to an emergency department immediately if toxic shock syndrome is suspected. Tell the team about recent surgery, wounds, vaginal symptoms, medicines, and any tampon or menstrual cup use. If a menstrual product is in place, remove it if you can do so easily, but do not delay emergency care. Hospital treatment may include antibiotics, fluids, blood-pressure support, monitoring, and treatment of the infection source. Antibiotic information is available in [Antibiotic Treatment for Pelvic Infection](/treatments/medical-gynaecology/antibiotic-treatment-for-pelvic-infection/).

Emergency help is needed for sudden fever with faintness, confusion, difficulty breathing, a rapidly spreading rash, severe weakness, repeated vomiting, or collapse. These symptoms can occur with or without an obvious wound. Do not drive yourself if dizzy or confused; ask someone to call and stay with you while help arrives.

Ask what infection source was found, which antibiotic course and wound care are needed, whether close contacts need advice, and which returning symptoms should send you back to emergency care.