Which type of drug-induced condition can lead to relative hypovolemia?

Relative hypovolemia occurs when there is adequate blood volume in the body, but it is not effectively circulating due to factors such as vasodilation or increased vascular permeability. In the context of drug-induced conditions, sepsis is particularly relevant because it often leads to widespread inflammation triggering the release of various mediators. These mediators can cause vasodilation and increased permeability of blood vessels, resulting in the relative hypovolemic state.

In sepsis, the body responds to an infection with a systemic inflammatory response, which can lead to a significant drop in systemic vascular resistance. This vasodilation can create the illusion of hypovolemia since the blood volume is still present but is not effectively utilizing the circulatory system. Additionally, fluid can leak into interstitial spaces, compounding the issue of effective circulating volume.

The other conditions mentioned do not typically lead to relative hypovolemia resulting from drug-induced mechanisms. Aortic dissection and pulmonary embolism are acute vascular events that directly affect flow and pressure without primarily involving systemic vasodilation or fluid shifts. Cerebral hemorrhage impacts volume locally, resulting in increased intracranial pressure rather than a systemic hypovolemic response.