Outlook

Toxic shock syndrome is a serious, life-threatening disease. Early medical care is the key to ensuring the best possibility of survival. People who survive toxic shock syndrome usually improve within 48 hours and can be discharged from the hospital within 1 week.

• Staphylococcal toxic shock syndrome: Less than 5% of women with toxic shock syndrome caused by S aureus (including menstrual related) die.

• Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome: The form of toxic shock syndrome caused by S pyogenes is more severe and causes death in about 30% of people.