Critical care infectious disease.

Septic shock, toxic shock syndrome, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and catheter-related infections are conditions in which intensive care management of the patient may be necessary. Toxic shock syndrome is a toxin-mediated illness that is not limited to young menstruating women and should be considered in women and men who present with fever, hypotension, rash, and multiorgan dysfunction. Sepsis is the leading cause of death in critically ill patients in the United States and is the most common predisposing factor for acute lung injury or acute respiratory distress syndrome. Central venous catheters are often a necessity for optimal patient care in these critically ill patients.