Exam Cram

• DIC (Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation) is a haematological disorder of excessive clotting (consuming platelets & clotting factors) and bleeding from lack of subsequent clotting factors

• Presentation: unwell (e.g. sepsis) + purpura

• Diagnosis: raised INR, low fibrinogen & platelets

• Management: treat the underlying cause + FFP

Outline

Background 

Assessment 

History

Examination

Investigations

Diagnosis 

Diagnostic criteria: raised INR & low fibrinogen in unwell patient

Differentials: 

• TTP (Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura) - usually has neurology signs and low ADAMTS13

• ITP (Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura)  - clinically well and normal fibrinogen/ INR

Management

1. Treat underlying cause, e.g. sepsis

2. Fibrinogen

References and Resources

Written 2024.