Haemodynamics: shock: practice question

A Pathology question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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Pathology · Haemodynamics: shock

Sample item

Which shock state typically has warm extremities and reduced systemic vascular resistance early in its course?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

A. Septic shock

Early septic shock is distributive: inflammatory mediators cause vasodilation and capillary leak, often producing warm skin. Cardiogenic, hypovolaemic and obstructive shock usually cause cool vasoconstricted extremities.

Option by option

  • A. Septic shock (correct)

    Correct. Vasodilation makes early septic shock 'warm'.

  • B. Cardiogenic shock

    Cardiogenic shock has low output with compensatory vasoconstriction.

  • C. Hypovolaemic shock

    Hypovolaemia triggers sympathetic vasoconstriction.

  • D. Massive pulmonary embolism

    Massive embolism is obstructive shock and is generally cool peripherally.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

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Questions about this Pathology question

What is the answer to this Pathology question?

The best answer is A, Septic shock. Early septic shock is distributive: inflammatory mediators cause vasodilation and capillary leak, often producing warm skin.

Why is "Cardiogenic shock" not the answer?

Cardiogenic shock has low output with compensatory vasoconstriction.

Why is "Hypovolaemic shock" not the answer?

Hypovolaemia triggers sympathetic vasoconstriction.

Why is "Massive pulmonary embolism" not the answer?

Massive embolism is obstructive shock and is generally cool peripherally.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Haemodynamics: shock in Pathology. Cardiogenic, hypovolaemic and obstructive shock usually cause cool vasoconstricted extremities.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Haemodynamics: shock?

Learn each disease as a bundle: cause, key histology, markers, and the clinical hallmark. Then use the flashcards and the other Pathology questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.