Final answer:
Septic shock involves excessive cytokine release, complement activation, and disseminated intravascular coagulation, which can lead to vasodilation, increased vascular permeability, intravascular clotting, multiple organ failure, and death.
Step-by-step explanation:
The conditions observed in septic shock include excessive cytokine release, complement activation, and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). During septic shock, pro-inflammatory cytokines like interleukin 1 (IL-1) and tumor necrosis factor-a (TNF-α) are released in large quantities as part of the immune response.
This can lead to vasodilation, increased vascular permeability, and the formation of blood clots. Complement activation also contributes to the inflammatory response, enhancing the process.
The excessive cytokines and complement activation result in a widespread inflammation that can cause a rapid drop in blood pressure and intravascular clotting, which can then lead to multiple organ failure and possibly death if not treated promptly.