What is "neurogenic shock"?

Neurogenic shock specifically refers to a type of distributive shock that occurs as a result of a spinal cord injury, particularly injuries that affect the sympathetic nervous system. In neurogenic shock, there is a loss of sympathetic tone, which leads to vasodilation and a significant drop in systemic vascular resistance. This loss of vascular tone results in decreased blood pressure and inadequate perfusion to vital organs, despite the possible presence of normal or elevated blood volume.

The condition typically arises following an injury at or above the T6 vertebra, which can disrupt the autonomic pathways responsible for maintaining vascular tone. As a result, patients may present with bradycardia (slow heart rate) along with hypotension (low blood pressure), as the body is unable to maintain the normal responses that would otherwise counteract the effects of gravity on blood circulation.

Recognizing neurogenic shock is important as it requires different management strategies compared to other types of shock, such as hypovolemic or septic shock, which are typically characterized by different underlying mechanisms. Understanding this distinction allows for timely and appropriate treatment to stabilize the patient and address the specific physiological challenges they face.