Article Sections

Introduction

Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is a life-threatening systemic condition characterized by widespread activation of the coagulation cascade, leading to the formation of microvascular thrombi and simultaneous consumption of platelets and coagulation factors.  This can result in concurrent thrombosis and severe bleeding.  DIC typically occurs secondary to an underlying condition and requires urgent intervention.

Pathogenesis

The goal of hemostasis is to maintain the integrity of a high-pressure circulatory system.  It is a coordinated process that involves the formation of a fibrin clot at the site of vascular injury, followed by clot lysis (ie, fibrinolysis) as the injured tissue undergoes repair.  If any step in this process is disrupted, abnormal bleeding or clotting can occur.

DIC ( Figure 1) occurs when widespread activation of the coagulation cascade (

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