Stiff person syndrome (SPS) is an extremely rare progressive neurological disorder characterized by persistent rigidity and spasms of certain voluntary muscles, especially those of legs and feet.
There is no cure for SPS and the long-term prognosis is variable. Many patients have a slow course of the disorder that is mostly without symptoms, punctuated by occasional episodes of stiffness.
Untreated toxic shock syndrome can be fatal. A 2003 report noted that a quick diagnosis of TSS is critical to avoiding serious complications and death.