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Septic shock from pneumonia — ABIM Board MCQ

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HardPulmonary/Critical CareSeptic shock from pneumoniaABIM Board

A 66-year-old man with fever and cough is confused. Blood pressure is 82/48 mm Hg, lactate is 5.1 mmol/L, creatinine is 2.0 mg/dL, and chest radiograph shows right lower-lobe consolidation. Two liters of crystalloid have been given. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

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Correct answer: A — Septic shock from pneumonia

Pneumonia with hypotension, elevated lactate, acute kidney injury, and persistent hypoperfusion despite fluids is septic shock. Prompt antibiotics and vasopressors when hypotension persists are needed.

Reference: Surviving Sepsis Campaign Guidelines; IDSA/ATS Community-Acquired Pneumonia Guideline