Question

A 48-year old man has had nasal surgery and absorbent material has been inserted into his nasal cavity to control bleeding. Several hours ago he began to complain of a headache and has since developed a red rash over much of his body and is experiencing muscle cramps and diarrhea. His blood pressure has dropped to 75/50 mg hg. This patient’s illness is most likely caused by

Answer 1

Answer: Streptococcus, Toxic Shock Syndrome

Explanation: Packing absorbent material combined with nasal surgery into the nasal cavity can lead to a bacterial infection in the nose that then spreads to the body. Because of the nasal surgery, there will most likely be a cut or fracture in the nose. This creates an opening for bacteria to enter the body. The bacteria can also release a toxin that causes Toxic Shock Syndrome.