Cardiogenic Shock in Women

Cardiogenic shock (CS) describes the physiologic state in which reduced cardiac output and resultant tissue hypoxia occur in the presence of adequate intravascular volume. Among patients hospitalized with myocardial infarction (MI), CS is the foremost cause of death. Women are more susceptible to CS than men in the setting of ST segment increase MI. Introduction of early revascularization strategies and mechanical ventricular support have seen a decrease in short-term mortality from CS. However, the prognosis following CS remains poor. This article examines the prevalence, causes, pathophysiology, and therapeutic options for CS among women.