Toxic shock syndrome and multiple-system organ failure after breast biopsy

Toxic shock syndrome may result from postoperative staphylococcal wound infection. A case that occurred following a breast biopsy procedure for benign disease is reported. There was progressive multiple-system organ failure, and the patient was near death within 24 hours after a biopsy specimen of a benign fibroadenoma was obtained during an outpatient procedure. Early recognition and aggressive resuscitation are essential to prevent mortality after outpatient surgery complicated by toxic shock syndrome.