Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC)
This is the result of clotting factors and platelets being consumed
Coagulation and fibrinolysis are dysregulated and this is resultant widespread clotting and bleeding. The clotting process goes into overdrive, bleeding occurs and multiorgan failure with consequent life threatening outcome can occur
2 stage process:
- 1. Overactive clotting consumes platelets and clotting factors which can block blood vessels - systemic activation of coagulation cascade
- 2. Consumption of factors and platelets then leads to bleeding - secondary activation of fibrinolytic system
In Obstetrics, DIC may be seen in several circumstances including placental abruption, pre-eclampsia, amniotic fluid embolism, septic abortion and PPH
Treatment: treat the underlying cause and replace blood products
