Pathophysiology of Shock

What is the primary consequence of untreated tissue hypoperfusion?

What is the characteristic feature of shock?

At what stage of fatal illnesses is shock typically present?

What is the outcome of successful treatment of shock?

What is the primary cause of tissue hypoperfusion?

What is the primary cause of hypovolaemic shock?

What is the effect of severe acute fluid loss into the GIT on the body?

What is the term for the space where fluid can accumulate, leading to hypovolaemic shock?

What is the most common cause of haemorrhage in veterinary patients?

What is the primary goal of treating hypovolaemic shock?

Definition of Shock

Shock is a clinical syndrome, not a specific disease entity

Characteristics of Shock

Significant compromise in O2 delivery to tissues
Failure of circulatory system to deliver blood flow to tissues (circulatory compromise/tissue hypoperfusion)

Consequences of Untreated Shock

Tissue hypoperfusion leads to organ dysfunction
Organ dysfunction ultimately leads to organ failure

Prevalence of Shock

Present in later stages of most fatal illnesses
Circulatory failure is part of the final common pathway leading towards death

Treatment of Shock

If recognized and treated at an early stage, successful treatment is possible
Such patients can provide some of the most rewarding cases to treat

Circulatory Shock

Can be further subdivided based on cause, which is crucial for determining appropriate treatment
Different forms of shock require different treatments

Hypovolaemic Shock

Most common form of shock seen in veterinary patients
Caused by loss of fluid from the circulating blood volume
Tissue hypoperfusion occurs due to inadequate circulating blood volume
Can occur secondary to:
- Haemorrhage (internal or external)
- Severe acute fluid loss into:
  - GIT (gastrointestinal tract)
  - Kidneys
  - "Third" space (peritoneal or pleural cavity)

Learn about the clinical syndrome of shock, its effects on the circulatory system, and its relation to organ dysfunction and failure. Understand the concept of tissue hypoperfusion and its consequences.