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Subcutaneous Infection of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus MRSA
Published on: February 9, 2011
Toxic shock syndrome caused by suture abscess with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) with late onset
Hiroyasu Komuro1, Takaharu Kato1,2, Shinichiro Okada1
1Department of Surgery, Yokosuka General Hospital Uwamachi, 2-36 Uwamachi, Yokosuka City, Kanagawa 238-8567, Japan.
Abstract:
Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a rare but life-threatening multisystem disease known to develop in the early postoperative period after various surgery. We report a rare case in which a patient who underwent Caesarean section developed TSS caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) on the 39th postoperative day. She was treated with debridement because of the possible diagnosis of necrotizing soft tissue infections. Culture test from the resected specimen was positive for MRSA. She was diagnosed with TSS caused by suture abscess and was treated with intensive care including antimicrobials. After a good postoperative course, she was discharged on the 30th postoperative day. TSS occurring 4 weeks after operation is extremely rare, but late-onset of suture abscess is known to occur. We should becognizant of development with TSS beyond early postoperative period.
Insights
Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a rare, life-threatening illness. This case highlights TSS caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) occurring 39 days after Caesarean section due to a suture abscess.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Critical Care Medicine
- Obstetrics & Gynecology
Background:
- Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a severe, multisystem disease typically seen in the early postoperative period.
- Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a significant pathogen associated with various infections, including rare postoperative complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report an extremely rare case of late-onset toxic shock syndrome (TSS) following a Caesarean section.
- To emphasize the importance of considering TSS beyond the early postoperative window, especially in the presence of suture abscesses.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a patient who developed TSS 39 days post-Caesarean section.
- Inclusion of diagnostic procedures such as debridement for suspected necrotizing soft tissue infections and culture testing.
- Treatment involved intensive care, antimicrobials, and surgical intervention.
Main Results:
- The patient was diagnosed with TSS caused by MRSA originating from a suture abscess.
- Successful treatment with intensive care, antimicrobials, and debridement led to a favorable outcome.
- The patient was discharged on the 30th postoperative day after a good recovery.
Conclusions:
- Late-onset TSS, occurring over 4 weeks postoperatively, is exceptionally rare but possible.
- Suture abscesses can lead to delayed TSS development, necessitating clinical vigilance.
- Healthcare providers must remain aware of the potential for TSS development long after surgical procedures.
