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Published on: April 7, 2021
Staphylococcal toxic shock syndrome presenting as acute respiratory distress and cor pulmonale
S A Zaki1, P Shanbag, V Chavan
1Department of Pediatrics, Lokmanya Tilak Municipal General Hospital, Mumbai, India. drzakisyed@gmail.com
Insights
Staphylococcal toxic shock syndrome can present unusually with respiratory distress and cor pulmonale in children. High clinical suspicion is key for early diagnosis and treatment to reduce severe outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) is a severe, multi-system illness typically associated with Staphylococcus aureus.
- Classic TSS presentations involve fever, rash, hypotension, and multi-organ failure.
Observation:
- A 7-year-old boy presented with acute respiratory distress and cor pulmonale.
- This presentation is atypical for staphylococcal toxic shock syndrome.
Findings:
- The case highlights an unusual manifestation of staphylococcal toxic shock syndrome.
- Diagnosis relies heavily on clinical suspicion due to non-specific initial symptoms.
Implications:
- Prompt recognition of atypical TSS presentations is crucial for timely intervention.
- Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly decrease patient morbidity and mortality.
Abstract:
We describe a 7-year-old boy with staphylococcal toxic shock syndrome who presented with acute respiratory distress and cor pulmonale. We wish to highlight this unusual presentation as the diagnosis of toxic shock syndrome depends chiefly on a high degree of clinical suspicion. Early diagnosis and prompt institution of appropriate therapy will significantly reduce morbidity and mortality.
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