Question

Vasodilation and a subsequently low blood pressure are dangerous consequences of _____ _____ which results from an infection by bacterial endotoxin

a) Septicemia
b) Cardiogenic shock
c) Anaphylactic shock
d) Septic shock

Answer 1

The correct answer is septic shock, which is a potentially fatal condition caused by an overwhelming immune response to bacterial endotoxins that leads to vasodilation, low blood pressure, and can result in multi-organ failure.

Step-by-step explanation:

Vasodilation and a subsequently low blood pressure are dangerous consequences of septic shock, which results from an infection by bacterial endotoxins. When bacteria, especially Gram-negative bacteria, infect the bloodstream (a condition known as septicemia), they can release large quantities of endotoxins, such as lipopolysaccharides (LPS). These endotoxins trigger an excessive immune response, characterized by the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines like tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), which increase the permeability of blood vessels. This, in turn, leads to vasodilation and the movement of fluid out of the circulatory system into the tissues, causing swelling or edema, and a dangerous drop in blood pressure. If not promptly and properly treated, septic shock can lead to multi-organ failure and death due to insufficient perfusion of tissues.