Distributive, Anaphylactic, and Neurogenic Shock

Vocabulary flashcards covering the pathophysiology, clinical presentations, and management of distributive shock subtypes including septic, anaphylactic, toxic, and neurogenic shock.

Distributive shock

A type of shock defined by widespread vasodilation and reduced SVR, often accompanied by capillary leak and maldistributed blood flow.

Major distributive shock subtypes

Septic shock, anaphylactic shock, neurogenic shock, and toxic shock.

Septic shock physiology

A dysregulated response to infection that produces vasodilation, endothelial injury, capillary leak, and microcirculatory dysfunction.

Early septic shock skin findings

Warm or flushed skin that may occur early before perfusion deteriorates.

Initial management for suspected septic shock

Rapid recognition, cultures when feasible without delaying therapy, timely antibiotics, IV crystalloid resuscitation as indicated, and perfusion reassessment.

Norepinephrine

The agent commonly used as the first-line vasopressor if septic shock hypotension persists after adequate fluids.

Anaphylactic shock

A severe systemic hypersensitivity reaction causing vasodilation, capillary leak, and often bronchoconstriction or airway edema.

Intramuscular epinephrine

The first-line medication for anaphylaxis, administered while promptly supporting airway, breathing, and circulation.

Anaphylaxis-related airway compromise

A life-threatening impairment of ventilation rapidly driven by bronchospasm and upper-airway edema.

Neurogenic shock

Hemodynamic failure caused by loss of sympathetic tone following spinal cord injury, commonly at or above T6.

Neurogenic shock vital-sign combination

Hypotension paired with bradycardia, contrasting with the typical tachycardic response seen in hypovolemia.

Toxic shock syndrome

A syndrome associated with toxin-producing Staphylococcus aureus or group A Streptococcus, presenting with fever, rash, hypotension, and organ dysfunction.

Spinal shock

Temporary loss of reflexes and neurologic function below the level of spinal injury, distinct from the hemodynamic sympathetic loss seen in neurogenic shock.