Types of shock: hypovolaemic, distributive, cardiogenic, obstructive
Which of these is an example of obstructive shock?
chevron_right Show answer and explanation
A. Septic peritonitis from a ruptured pyometra
This is distributive shock: vasodilation and increased permeability from the systemic inflammatory response reduce effective circulating volume.
B. Cardiac tamponade from pericardial effusion
Correct. In obstructive shock a physical cause prevents cardiac filling or emptying: tamponade, tension pneumothorax, gastric dilatation-volvulus (caval compression) or pulmonary thromboembolism. It is treated by removing the obstruction.
C. Dilated cardiomyopathy with low output
This is cardiogenic shock: the failure lies in the pump function of the heart itself, not in external compression or obstruction to flow.
D. Anaphylaxis after a wasp sting
Anaphylaxis is distributive shock due to vasodilation and fluid extravasation mediated by histamine and other mediators.
lightbulb Key takeaway
Classify shock: hypovolaemic (lack of volume), distributive (vasodilation: sepsis, anaphylaxis), cardiogenic (pump failure) and obstructive (something prevents filling). In cardiogenic and obstructive shock fluid boluses do not solve the problem and may worsen it.
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Updated: October 31, 2026 · Educational content for veterinary professionals. It does not replace current clinical guidelines or the judgement of the attending veterinarian.