Cardiogenic shock: diagnosis, phenotyping and management

Abstract

Cardiogenic shock (CS) is a state of critical end-organ hypoperfusion caused by primary cardiac failure, in which the heart cannot generate sufficient output despite adequate preload and is associated with very high mortality rates. The emergence of precision medicine may enable tailored interventions based on individual patient profiles, including genetic, biomarker, imaging, and clinical data. Advanced hemodynamic monitoring, mechanical circulatory support devices with smaller profiles and higher flow, and targeted pharmacologic therapies have expanded the therapeutic possibilities in CS. However, integrating these novel approaches into clinical practice requires careful alignment with evidence-based medicine. Balancing innovation with robust clinical evidence is crucial. Many technologies enter the clinical sphere before comprehensive trials confirm their benefit, creating potential risks in vulnerable CS patients. Precision medicine must therefore be grounded on rigorous data from randomized-controlled trials, registries, and meta-analyses to ensure safety and efficacy. Collaborative efforts, including large-scale data sharing and international research networks, are essential to bridge the gap between innovation and evidence. The goal is to move beyond a one-size-fits-all model toward a more nuanced, patient-centered approach while maintaining scientific rigor.

Keywords: Cardiogenic shock; Mechanical circulatory support; Shock phenotyping.