Toxic Shock Syndrome Originating From A Tattoo: A Case Report.
Magnus Østergaard Holm, Sarah Østergaard Holm, Andreas Halgreen Eiset
✦ AI-curated · Sources linked
Case in brief
A 21-year-old man developed toxic shock syndrome (TSS) following extensive tattooing on his upper arm. He presented with fever, gastrointestinal symptoms, and rapidly progressed to hypotension, multiorgan dysfunction, and respiratory distress, requiring intubation. Despite negative microbiologic tests, he met the criteria for staphylococcal TSS. Treatment included hemodialysis, vasopressors, and antimicrobial therapy, leading to his discharge after 10 days without sequelae.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
Clinicians should consider toxic shock syndrome as a potential complication of tattooing, especially when gastrointestinal symptoms, fever, and acute hypotension arise shortly after the procedure.
Why it matters
Awareness of tattoo-associated TSS is crucial for emergency physicians, as early recognition and intervention can significantly impact patient outcomes.