Pathophysiology Cards

Question 1

Describe the pathophysiology of septic shock.

Answer 1

Overwhelming infection triggers systemic vasodilation, increased capillary permeability, and impaired perfusion. Vasopressors restore MAP and perfusion.

Question 2

What is the pathophysiology of heart failure?

Answer 2

Inadequate cardiac output leads to poor perfusion and fluid backup. Dobutamine helps by enhancing contractility via beta-1 receptors.

Question 3

Why choose norepinephrine over dopamine in cardiogenic shock?

Answer 3

Norepinephrine increases BP with fewer arrhythmias than dopamine. Dopamine can increase myocardial O₂ demand and worsen outcomes.

Question 4

What causes hypoxemia in ARDS?

Answer 4

Alveolar-capillary membrane damage → increased permeability → pulmonary edema → V/Q mismatch and shunting.

Question 5

How does sepsis lead to hypotension?

Answer 5

Inflammatory mediators cause vasodilation, capillary leak, and myocardial depression.

Question 6

What lab changes are common in early septic shock?

Answer 6

Elevated lactate, leukocytosis or leukopenia, increased procalcitonin, possible coagulopathy (elevated PT/INR, D-dimer).