Fortnightly Review: Disseminated intravascular coagulation: diagnosis and treatment
BMJ 1996; 312 doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.312.7032.683 (Published 16 March 1996) Cite this as: BMJ 1996;312:683
- Trevor Baglin, consultant haematologista
Abstract
Summary points
Disseminated intravascular coagulation is primarily a clinical diagnosis, and laboratory tests are used to confirm the diagnosis and monitor replacement of blood components
Tests required are platelet count, prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time, fibrinogen, and a measure of fibrinogen degradation products
Treatment of disseminated intravascular coagulation is primarily that of the underlying condition
Maintenance of blood volume and tissue perfusion is essential in all cases of disseminated intravascular coagulation
Replacement of blood components is indicated if the patient is bleeding or an invasive procedure is required and must be monitored
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