Shock due to severe infection is called which type?

• A. Neurogenic shock
• B. Septic shock
• C. Hypovolemic shock
• D. Anaphylactic shock

Answer: (B)

Septic shock is shock caused by a severe infection. When an infection becomes widespread, the body's inflammatory response can throw off circulation and tissue perfusion. This leads to widespread vasodilation and leaky vessels, causing blood pressure to fall and organs to begin failing, even after giving fluids. Clinically you’d see persistent low blood pressure with signs of organ dysfunction, such as reduced urine output, altered mental status, or lactic acidosis.

This distinguishes septic shock from other types: neurogenic shock arises from loss of sympathetic tone after spinal injury; hypovolemic shock results from a dangerous loss of blood or fluids; and anaphylactic shock comes from a severe allergic reaction causing rapid widespread vasodilation and airway issues. The key factor in septic shock is the infection-driven systemic inflammatory response that disrupts perfusion.