The cellular hypoxia results in anaerobic metabolism, resulting in increased lactic acid production. If the derangements are not corrected, death of the cells and patient occurs. Cardiogenic shock is caused by failure of the heart due to intrinsic myocardial damage. Hypovolemic or hemorrhagic shock is due to inadequate blood or plasma volume caused by hemorrhage, fluid loss from severe burns, or trauma. Septic shock can also be caused by gram-positive bacteria and occasionally fungi.
Septic shock is the most important form of shock in veterinary medicine.
LPS binds to receptors on leukocytes, endothelial cells, and other cell types. These mediators affect a large number of vital organ systems. These cytokines cause endothelial activation and leukocyte adhesion and aggregation, and promote intravascular coagulation and thrombosis. During this phase, there are a variety of neurohumoral mechanisms that come into play to maintain cardiac output and blood pressure. The net effect of all of these mechanisms is tachycardia, peripheral vasoconstriction, and conservation of fluid by the kidney.