Cardiogenic shock is a life-threatening condition caused by the heart’s inability to pump enough blood to meet the body’s metabolic demands. It is one of the most severe forms of circulatory failure and requires immediate ICU admission for advanced hemodynamic monitoring and life-support interventions. Cardiogenic shock commonly results from acute myocardial infarction but may also arise from severe heart failure, arrhythmias, valvular disease, or myocarditis.

Patients present with profound hypotension, cold clammy skin, reduced urine output, altered mental status, and signs of pulmonary congestion. Inadequate cardiac output leads to poor organ perfusion, rapidly progressing to multi-organ failure if untreated. ICU-level care is essential to restore circulation and prevent irreversible damage.

Management in the ICU focuses on stabilizing circulation and supporting cardiac function. Vasoactive medications and inotropes are used to improve blood pressure and cardiac output. Advanced monitoring allows precise assessment of cardiac performance and response to therapy. Mechanical ventilation may be required due to pulmonary edema and respiratory failure.

In severe cases, mechanical circulatory support devices may be needed to sustain life while underlying cardiac issues are addressed. Close coordination between intensivists and cardiology teams is critical to guide definitive treatment.

Cardiogenic shock carries a high mortality rate, but early ICU intervention significantly improves survival and functional recovery.