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Treatment of Toxic shock syndrome

First of all, it is important to give oxygen to any shocked patient.  The blood volume needs to be increased. 

Patients should receive fluids directly into the bloodstream (intravenous) for this.  In hospital other measures may be used to improve blood pressure and heart function.

The source of toxins - the bacteria - needs to be removed using antibiotics.   The antibiotic clindamycin is preferred over others as it stops bacteria making proteins including these toxin molecules.

The toxins themselves can be neutralised using intravenous immunoglobulins.  These are antibodies from blood donors, some of which are likely to stop the activity of the toxin molecules. 

If the patient is using a tampon, it should be removed immediately at the first sign of a fever or rash.  If TSS is diagnosed, this action may help to prevent symptoms from worsening.

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