Distributive shock is characterised by vasodilation and reduced SVR. In septic shock, the initial haemodynamic profile typically includes which combination?

• A Low cardiac output, high SVR, high PCWP
• B Normal cardiac output, normal SVR, high PCWP
• C Low cardiac output, low SVR, normal PCWP
• D High cardiac output, low SVR, low PCWP ✓

Explanation

Warm (hyperdynamic) septic shock is the most common early presentation: vasodilatory cytokines (TNF-alpha, IL-6) cause peripheral vasodilation (low SVR), which triggers compensatory high cardiac output (tachycardia + increased stroke volume). PCWP is low due to venodilatation and reduced preload. Cold (hypodynamic) septic shock occurs later as myocardial depression supervenes, reducing cardiac output. This warm/high output, low SVR pattern distinguishes septic from cardiogenic shock (low CO, high SVR, high PCWP).

Reference: Bailey & Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 27th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.