USMLE Forum Archives - USMLE Step 3 - derma 5
derma 5
conym5 - 07-14-09 09:59
A 31-year-old man presents to the emergency room 3 days after
undergoing a hernia repair operation. He is febrile and hypotensive.
The symptoms began with the sudden onset of a diffuse, maculopapular rash that was pruritic and erythematous. On cutaneous examination, the erythroderma involves the palms and soles and is beginning to desquamate. The patient has no other illnesses and takes no medications. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?
conym5 - 07-14-09 09:59
A 31-year-old man presents to the emergency room 3 days after
undergoing a hernia repair operation. He is febrile and hypotensive.
The symptoms began with the sudden onset of a diffuse, maculopapular rash that was pruritic and erythematous. On cutaneous examination, the erythroderma involves the palms and soles and is beginning to desquamate. The patient has no other illnesses and takes no medications. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?
The correct answer and explanation will be available after you answer.
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#4
Re: derma 5
conym5 - 07-14-09 19:12 TSS is the most likely diagnosis in this patient. This
disease is a toxin-mediated multisystem infection caused by Staphylococcus
aureus. Risk factors for TSS include surgical wounds, nasal packs, burns,
skin ulcers, postpartum infections, eye injuries, and use of vaginal tampons.
The rash is typically generalized and macular and involves the
mucous membranes. Desquamation of the epithelium of the palms and
soles and subsequent multisystem failure occur in TSS
#12
Re: derma 5 babbu5508 - 09-30-10 13:56 My answer is: b.
Toxic shock syndrome due to surgical wound infection by staphylococcus aureus...the rash and fever are diagnostic..
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