Peribronchial and alveolar edema are also prominent lesions. Although the lung is the primary shock organ in the horse, if the challenge is prolonged the intestine becomes an important shock organ. Increased peristalsis leads to diarrhea and hemorrhagic lesions in the intestine, especially the cecum. Cattle, sheep, and swine react similarly. The most important shock organ in the dog is the liver.
Severe congestion is followed by ischemic necrosis of hepatocytes.
Histologically, the hepatic cords are disaggregated.