Effects of total body irradiation and cyclosporin a on the lethality of toxic shock syndrome toxin-1 in a rabbit model of toxic shock syndrome.

Dinges, Martin M; Gregerson, Dale S; Tripp, Timothy J; McCormick, John K; Schlievert, Patrick M · J Infect Dis · 2003

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) may be mediated by superantigen-activated T cells, a theory we tested in rabbits, which are more susceptible to the lethal effects of superantigens, such as TSS toxin-1 (TSST-1), than are mice. Rabbits exposed to 10 cGy of total body irradiation exhibited T cell deficiency, with profound depletion of splenic lymphocytes and circulating CD4(+) lymphocytes, as well as an inability to manifest delayed-type hypersensitivity. Nevertheless, these rabbits remained completely susceptible to TSST-1, indicating that TSS can occur in the setting of marked immunosuppression.

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