Which shock is commonly the result of a severe allergic reaction causing systemic vasodilation and capillary leakage?

• A. Septic Shock
• B. Neurogenic Shock
• C. Anaphylactic Shock
• D. Tension Pneumothorax

Answer: (C)

Anaphylactic shock is the form caused by a severe allergic reaction triggering widespread release of histamine and other mediators. This leads to systemic vasodilation and increased capillary permeability, causing a drop in effective circulating blood volume and fluid leakage into tissues. The result is low blood pressure and poor tissue perfusion, often with airway swelling and bronchospasm. This pattern distinguishes it from other shocks: septic shock also involves vasodilation and leakage but from infection; neurogenic shock comes from loss of sympathetic tone after injury; tension pneumothorax causes obstructive shock due to impaired venous return, not systemic vasodilation.