Shock

Clinical Vignette MCQ | mcqsurgery.com

Clinical vignette

Practice | Clinical scenario

Q) A 25-year-old male is brought to the emergency department after a high-speed motorbike accident. He is conscious but reports inability to move his lower limbs. On examination his blood pressure is 75/40 mmHg, pulse 48/min, skin warm and dry. There is flaccid paralysis of both lower limbs and decreased sensation below the level of the umbilicus. Jugular venous pressure is low. What is the most likely diagnosis?
  • a) Hypovolemic shock due to occult intra-abdominal bleed
  • b) Neurogenic shock due to spinal cord injury
  • c) Cardiogenic shock due to blunt cardiac contusion
  • d) Septic shock due to aspiration pneumonia

Answer: b) Neurogenic shock due to spinal cord injury

Explanation: The classic triad in neurogenic shock is hypotension, warm dry skin (due to peripheral vasodilatation) and relative bradycardia resulting from loss of sympathetic tone with unopposed vagal activity. The history of acute spinal cord injury (inability to move lower limbs with sensory level) strongly supports spinal shock with sympathetic disruption. Low JVP argues against cardiogenic causes; hypovolemia typically causes tachycardia and cold, clammy skin; septic shock is unlikely immediately post-trauma and usually causes tachycardia. Initial management includes cervical spine immobilization (if relevant), airway protection, judicious IV fluids, and vasopressors (norepinephrine) for persistent hypotension—atropine may be required for severe bradycardia. Consideration for definitive spinal stabilization and early neuro-monitoring is essential.

Key points: loss of sympathetic tone → decreased systemic vascular resistance; bradycardia is characteristic; treat with vasopressors and supportive care.

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Published: Sept 6, 2025 • Tags: clinical vignette, spinal cord injury, distributive shock