Causes, Risk Factors, And Complications Of Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC)

Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is a condition that causes the production of blood clots in an individual's small blood vessels that can obstruct blood flow to organs in the affected region. Clotting factors and platelets are components of the blood required for the appropriate and effective formation of blood clots. DIC is a condition where the clotting factors become more active than normal, resulting in an inappropriate formation of blood clots. This condition can be acute and occur suddenly, or it may be chronic and develop slowly. Diagnosis of disseminated intravascular coagulation is made through a thorough physical exam, medical history, complete blood count, blood smear, serum fibrinogen, and fibrin degradation tests, among others. Treatment is based on symptoms and may include blood transfusions, oxygen therapy, and other medications.