Use of hemodynamics to differentiate pathophysiologic causes of cardiogenic shock.

Although extensive myocardial damage is the major cause of pump failure and cardiogenic shock, certain other mechanical defects associated with myocardial infarction may precipitate a severe shock state associated with a poor prognosis. Early recognition and differentiation of the underlying pathology is essential for prompt, appropriate treatment to correct the underlying causative disorder and change the course of the cascading factors that eventually lead to the patient's death. Frequently, this requires the direct measurement and assessment of hemodynamic perameters obtained from intravascular catheters.