DISSEMINATED INTRAVASCULAR COAGULATION

General Information

DEFINITION--A serious disruption of blood-clotting mechanisms, resulting in hemorrhaging or internal bleeding. This disorder is a complication of an underlying disorder.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED--Blood vessels and blood in all parts of the body.

SEX OR AGE MOST AFFECTED--Both sexes; all ages.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

> Bleeding and hemorrhage from any or several body parts. Bleeding may be heavy. Common signs of bleeding include:

Bloody vomit or red or black stools. Vaginal bleeding. Red or cloudy urine. Unexplained bruising.

• Severe abdominal or back pain caused by bleeding into body organs.
• Convulsions (rare).
• Coma (rare).

CAUSES--

Depletion of blood-clotting components, causing widespread bleeding. This condition can be the result of:

• Pregnancy abnormalities, such as placenta previa, abruptio placenta or toxemia.
• Widespread or major infection.
• Widespread cancer.
• Some kinds of surgery.
• Widespread tissue destruction, as with extensive burns.
• Poisonous snakebite.
• Transfusion of mismatched blood.

RISK INCREASES WITH

• Poor nutrition.
• Illness that has lowered resistance.

HOW TO PREVENT--Obtain prompt medical treatment for the underlying causes.

What To Expect

DIAGNOSTIC MEASURES--

• Your own observation of symptoms.
• Medical history and physical exam by a doctor.

APPROPRIATE HEALTH CARE

• Doctor's treatment.
• Hospitalization.
• Surgery to correct the underlying disorder (sometimes).
• Self-care after treatment.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

• Kidney failure.
• Brain damage, with seizures or coma.
• Shock; death.

PROBABLE OUTCOME--If the underlying cause of DIC is treated promptly, full recovery is likely.

How To Treat

GENERAL MEASURES--

• Patients with this condition are often desperately ill and require intensive hospital care. Family members can help by maintaining a positive, hopeful attitude.
• During recovery, don't scrub or take scabs off sores. This may trigger new bleeding.

MEDICATION--Your doctor may prescribe:

• Blood transfusions or blood-component infusions.
• Heparin (an anticoagulant administered by injection).

ACTIVITY--Rest in bed until your doctor approves a return to normal activity.

DIET--Whatever type of diet is tolerated depending on patient's condition.

Call Your Doctor If

• You have symptoms of DIC. This is an emergency!
• Any bleeding recurs or the abdomen swells rapidly during treatment.