Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC): Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC) is a serious blood disorder causing abnormal clotting and severe bleeding. Early diagnosis and treatment are vital.

What is Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC)?

Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC) is a rare blood clotting disorder that can lead to organ damage and excessive bleeding.

It usually occurs as a complication of severe medical conditions and can be life-threatening without timely treatment.

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Causes of Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation

DIC usually occurs as a complication of underlying medical conditions. Common causes include:

Severe infections (Sepsis): Infections like bacterial, viral, or fungal sepsis can trigger DIC.
Trauma or Surgery: Major injuries, accidents, or surgical procedures can activate the clotting system.
Cancer: Certain types of cancer, like leukaemia, can contribute to DIC development.
Pregnancy-Related Complications: Conditions such as placental abruption, eclampsia, or amniotic fluid embolism can cause DIC.
Liver Disease: Liver disorders can cause DIC by affecting clotting factor production.
Severe Allergic Reactions: Anaphylaxis and other strong immune responses can trigger clotting abnormalities.

Symptoms of Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation

Symptoms of DIC depend on whether clotting or bleeding is more dominant. Common symptoms include:

Excessive Bleeding: Uncontrolled bleeding from gums, nose, surgical wounds, or injection sites.
Bruising: Dark patches or purplish spots on the skin due to blood leakage.
Organ Dysfunction: Clots can reduce blood supply to organs, causing kidney failure, breathing difficulties, or confusion.
Blood in Urine or Stool: It Indicates internal bleeding.
Low Blood Pressure and Shock: In severe cases, DIC can lead to circulatory collapse.

Diagnosis of Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation

DIC is diagnosed through clinical symptoms and lab tests, including:

Complete Blood Count (CBC)
Prothrombin Time (PT)
Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT)
D-Dimer Test
Fibrinogen Levels

Treatment of Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation

Treatment targets the underlying cause while managing clotting and bleeding complications.

1. Treating the Underlying Condition

Antibiotics for infections
Chemotherapy for cancer-related DIC
Surgery or blood transfusions for trauma

2. Managing Clotting and Bleeding

Blood Thinners (Anticoagulants): Used cautiously to prevent excessive clotting.
Platelet Transfusion: Helps restore normal clotting.
Fresh Frozen Plasma: Replenishes clotting factors.
Oxygen Therapy & IV Fluids: Supports overall health and prevents organ damage.

Complications of Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation

If not managed timely, DIC can lead to:

Multiple organ failure due to blocked blood supply.
Severe internal bleeding, leading to shock.
Higher risk of infections and slow wound healing.

Prevention of Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation

While DIC cannot always be prevented, early detection and management of risk factors can help. Steps include:

Timely treatment of infections and sepsis.
Proper prenatal care to avoid pregnancy-related complications.
Managing chronic illnesses like cancer and liver disease effectively.

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When to Seek Medical Help?

Immediate medical attention is needed if you experience excessive bleeding, unexplained bruising, or signs of organ failure like difficulty breathing or confusion.

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