Epidemiology and Characteristics of Staphylococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome (2000–2006)
Author Information
Author(s): DeVries Aaron S., Lesher Lindsey, Schlievert Patrick M., Rogers Tyson, Villaume Lourdes G., Danila Richard, Lynfield Ruth
Primary Institution: Minnesota Department of Health
Hypothesis
Is the incidence of Staphylococcal toxic shock syndrome (TSS) increasing in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area?
Conclusion
The incidence of TSS remained stable from 2000 to 2006, with no significant increase observed.
Supporting Evidence
- 61 cases of TSS were identified from 7,491 hospitalizations.
- The average annual incidence of all TSS was 0.52 per 100,000 persons.
- Women aged 13–24 years had the highest incidence at 1.41 per 100,000.
- MRSA was isolated in 4 cases, accounting for 7% of TSS cases.
- Superantigen gene tst-1 was found in 80% of isolates.
Takeaway
This study looked at toxic shock syndrome cases in Minnesota and found that the number of cases didn't go up over the years studied.
Methodology
Population-based active surveillance using ICD-9 codes and medical record reviews.
Potential Biases
Potential underestimation of TSS cases due to the strict CDC case definition.
Limitations
The study may underestimate the total TSS disease burden due to reliance on specific case definitions.
Participant Demographics
Median age of cases was 21.4 years, with 79% female.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p=0.07
Confidence Interval
95% CI, 0.32–0.77
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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