Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)

About Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)

A serious impairment of blood-clotting mechanisms. Some process, usually an infection or cancer, causes the body to rapidly use the body's clotting factors and platelets. Small blood clots can clog arteries to important organs causing them to fail. In addition patients may experience excessive bleeding due to the decrease in clotting factors and platelets.

Symptoms

Bleeding, easy bruising, skin discoloration, low blood pressure.

Tests & Diagnostics

A history and physical exam will be performed. Blood tests are performed to diagnose the disorder. These tests will demonstrate low platelets, and defective clotting of blood. A search for the underlying cause of the DIC will also be done.

Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), D-Dimer.

Conventional treatment summary

Identification and treatment of the underlying cause (such as infection) is paramount. Transfusion of the missing blood clotting proteins is necessary. Occasionally heparin, a blood thinner, is prescribed to prevent further clotting.

Medical specialties

Hematology and Oncology · Infectious Disease Medicine · Pediatric Infectious Disease Medicine

This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC).