Managing toxic shock syndrome in immunosuppressed patient after liver transplantation from trauma to triumph: A case report

Abstract

BACKGROUND Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS), caused by group A Streptococcus (Streptococcus pyogenes ), is characterized by shock and multiorgan failure and is associated with a high mortality rate. Organ transplant recipients are especially vulnerable due to immunosuppressive therapy. Although critical for graft survival, immunosuppression increases susceptibility to infections, the leading cause of morbidity and mortality early after liver transplantation. CASE SUMMARY A 69-year-old female on dual immunosuppressive regimen with mycophenolate mofetil and tacrolimus due to liver transplantation in 2010 and chronic kidney disease presented to the emergency department after tripping at home and injuring her neck with a wooden splinter from a chair. She developed progressive neck swelling and erythema with a diffuse maculopapular rash. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography scan showed a multiloculated neck abscess (59 mm × 32 mm × 85 mm). Her leucocyte count was 22.4 × 109/L, C-reactive protein 327.4 mg/L, and creatinine 233 μmol/L. Microbiological analysis tested positive for group A Streptococcus, suggesting diagnosis of STSS. She developed hypotension, dyspnea and fever prompting an urgent surgical drainage. Mycophenolate mofetil was discontinued, tacrolimus was reduced and was treated with cephazolin and clindamycin. Her skin rash slowly resolved, C-reactive protein decreased to 53.0 mg/L and kidney function improved. A computed tomography scan confirmed resolution and showed no new abscess formation. After two years of follow-up, she is unremarkable. CONCLUSION STSS in organ transplant recipients demands rapid managing of infections while minimizing the risk of graft rejection.