Beschreibung:
<jats:sec>
<jats:title>INTRODUCTION:</jats:title>
<jats:p>Case report.</jats:p>
</jats:sec>
<jats:sec>
<jats:title>METHODS:</jats:title>
<jats:p>Case Study: We describe the case of a 21-year old gravida 0 with history of substance abuse and genital herpes who presented to the hospital with fever and malaise of several days duration. On examination she exhibited cervical motion tenderness concerning for pelvic inflammatory disease and severe maculopapular rash accompanied by an episode of hypotension. The patient was transferred to the intensive care unit, where her clinic picture met the CDC case definition for probable toxic shock syndrome. Streptococcal disease was suspected due to elevated anti-DNAse B titers. She underwent treatment with antibiotics and intravenous immunoglobulin and discharged home after one week of hospitalization. At discharge she exhibited characteristic desquamation of the palms and soles. The incidence of non-menstrual toxic shock syndrome has remained stable despite the decline in menstrual toxic shock associated with high-absorbency tampon use. While the CDC's case definition is useful in defining a case, a patient is often resuscitated and treated-to their benefit--before criteria can be met to confirm diagnosis. In discussion of this case we review the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and management of this life threatening illness, and reaffirm the importance of maintaining a high index of suspicion for patients with a similar presentation. Informed consent was granted by the patient. She understands that no personally identifying information would be included in the report and that every effort for anonymity would be made, but could not be guaranteed. The patient was offered the opportunity to read the manuscript and associated materials.</jats:p>
</jats:sec>
<jats:sec>
<jats:title>CONCLUSION:</jats:title>
<jats:p>Case report.</jats:p>
</jats:sec>