Disseminated intravascular coagulation

• What is disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)?

  Initial formation of thrombi -> consume factor V, VIII and platelets = simultaneous coag and haemorrhage
• What are some causes of DIC?

  Sepsis

  Malignancy

  Trauma

  Liver disease

  Obstetric complications
• What may bloods show for DIC?

  Low platelets

  Prolonged aPTT, PT and bleeding time

  Fibrin degradation products are raised

  Schistocytes (due to microangiopathic haemolytic anaemia)