DIC

Question 1

What is DIC?

Answer 1

Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is an acquired syndrome characterised by activation of coagulation pathways, resulting in formation of intravascular thrombi and depletion of platelets and coagulation factors.

Question 2

What are the risk factors of DIC?

Answer 2

> Major trauma or severe infection
Severe obstetric complication
Solid tumours and haem malignancy
Severe toxic or immuno reactions

Question 3

What are the signs and symptoms of DIC?

Answer 3

> Oliguria, hypotension or tachycardia
Purpura fulminans, gangrene or acral cyanosis
Delirium or coma
Petechiae, ecchymosis, oozing or haematuria

Question 4

What is the epidemiology of DIC?

Answer 4

Many conditions can cause DIC; therefore, the overall incidence is difficult to determine. Age and sex are not good predictors. Mortality can be high.

Question 5

What are the appropriate investigations for DIC?

Answer 5

> Platelet count (low)
> Prothrombin time (high)
> Fibrinogen (low)
> D dimer (high)
> aPTT (unpredictable)
> Imaging (variable)