Distributive shock |
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Distributive shock is a medical condition in which abnormal distribution of blood flow in the smallest blood vessels results in inadequate supply of blood to the body's tissues and organs.[1][2] It is one of four categories of shock, a condition where there is not enough oxygen-carrying blood to meet the metabolic needs of the cells which make up the body's tissues and organs.[2] Distributive shock is different from the other three categories of shock in that it occurs even though the output of the heart is at or above a normal level.[2] The most common cause is sepsis leading to a type of distributive shock called septic shock, a condition that can be fatal.[1]