Final answer:
Neurogenic shock is a form of vascular shock characterized by a loss of sympathetic activation of arteriolar smooth muscle. It occurs with cranial or spinal injuries that damage the cardiovascular centers in the medulla oblongata or the nervous fibers originating from this region.
Step-by-step explanation:
Neurogenic shock is a type of vascular shock that occurs with cranial or spinal injuries that damage the cardiovascular centers in the medulla oblongata or the nervous fibers originating from this region. In this condition, there is a loss of sympathetic activation of arteriolar smooth muscle, leading to vasodilation and low blood pressure. This is in contrast to cardiogenic shock, where there is increased sympathetic nervous stimulation, and anaphylactic shock, where there is the release of vasodilatory mediators such as histamine into the circulation.