Case Report

Drotrecogin Alfa (Activated) for Nonmenstrual Toxic Shock Syndrome Associated with Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Infection

Authors: Dafer W. Haddadin, MD, Imran Q. Samnani, MD, Jonathan P. Moorman, MD, PHD

Abstract

Nonmenstrual toxic shock syndrome (TSS) due to Staphylococcus aureus can lead to significant morbidity and mortality. While drotrecogin alfa (DA) has been employed in patients with Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) severe sepsis and septic shock, its utility in TSS remains unclear. The authors report a case of severe sepsis in the setting of MRSA-associated TSS that responded to treatment with DA. This case illustrates a potential role for DA in the treatment of toxic shock syndromes and emphasizes the importance of aggressive diagnostic and therapeutic modalities in approaching these conditions.


Key Points


* Drotrecogin alfa may have a role in treating toxic shock syndrome.


* The underlying infections leading to toxic shock may be clinically difficult to diagnose.


* Aggressive diagnostic and therapeutic measures are often needed in the setting of nonmenstrual toxic shock syndrome.

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