Two cases of fatal shock after transfusion of platelets contaminated by Staphylococcus aureus: role of superantigenic toxins

Clin Infect Dis. 2004 Nov 15;39(10):e106-9. doi: 10.1086/425499. Epub 2004 Oct 22.

Abstract

We detected Staphylococcus aureus superantigenic toxins in the platelet infusion bags that had been used for 2 patients who subsequently developed transfusion-associated Staphylococcus aureus infection. Both patients, who were immunodeficient, developed manifestations of toxic shock syndrome and septic shock, and they died soon after the onset of infection.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Antigens, Bacterial* / physiology
  • Enterotoxins* / physiology
  • Fatal Outcome
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Platelet Transfusion / adverse effects*
  • Shock, Septic / etiology*
  • Staphylococcus aureus*

Substances

  • Antigens, Bacterial
  • Enterotoxins
  • enterotoxin B, staphylococcal