Intravascular disseminated coagulation (DIC) is a serious medical condition characterized by abnormal blood clotting and simultaneous bleeding throughout the body. It is also known as consumptive coagulopathy or disseminated intravascular coagulopathy. DIC occurs as a result of an underlying condition or disease that triggers an excessive activation of the body's coagulation system.
During DIC, the body's clotting factors are consumed rapidly and lead to the formation of fibrin clots throughout the blood vessels. This causes small blood vessels to become blocked, leading to insufficient blood flow to vital organs. As a consequence, surrounding tissues can become damaged and organs may fail.
At the same time, the activation of the coagulation system depletes platelets and clotting factors, disrupting their normal hemostatic functions. This imbalance between clot formation and normal blood coagulation processes contributes to the occurrence of excessive bleeding from various sites of the body, such as the gums, gastrointestinal tract, urinary system, or reproductive organs.
Common causes of DIC include sepsis, trauma, cancer, severe infections, liver disease, or complications during pregnancy. Symptoms may vary depending on the underlying condition, but commonly include abnormal bleeding, petechiae (small red or purple spots on the skin), organ dysfunction, and signs of clotting such as deep vein thrombosis.
Prompt diagnosis and treatment of the underlying cause of DIC are crucial in managing the condition. Treatment may involve addressing the underlying cause, providing supportive care, administering blood and platelet transfusions, and using anticoagulants to prevent further clot formation.
