Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
The DIC is a dangerous and potentially life-threatening condition caused by an overactive blood clotting system. As a result, small blood clots form throughout the body, which can block the flow of blood to vital organs and tissues. Additionally, excessive clotting depletes blood of platelets and clotting factors that stop bleeding, which are needed. This can lead to excessive bleeding from various sites, such as the skin, gums, nose, or internal organs.
Causes of DIC
DIC can be triggered by various diseases or conditions that cause inflammation, infection, or tissue damage in the body. Some of the common causes of DIC include:
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Sepsis, a severe infection that affects the whole body
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Trauma, such as severe burns, injuries, or surgery
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Cancer, especially blood cancers like leukemia or lymphoma
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Obstetric complications, such as placental abruption, preeclampsia, or amniotic fluid embolism
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Transfusion reactions, when the body rejects a blood transfusion
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Snake bites, which can release venom that affects the blood clotting system
Symptoms of DIC
The symptoms of DIC depend on the severity and location of the blood clots and bleeding. Some of the possible symptoms include:
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Fever, chills, and weakness
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Shortness of breath, chest pain, or coughing up blood
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Headache, confusion, or seizures
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Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or bloody stools
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Skin rash, bruises, or bleeding from the skin, gums, or nose
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Joint or muscle pain, or swelling of the limbs
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Reduced urine output, or blood in the urine
Diagnosis of DIC
DIC can be diagnosed by a combination of clinical signs and laboratory tests. The laboratory tests include:
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A complete blood count (CBC) determines the number and type of blood cells in the body, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. DIC can cause low levels of red blood cells and platelets, but high levels of white blood cells.
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DIC can cause prolonged clotting times and low levels of clotting factors and fibrinogen, which contribute to the formation of clots.
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Tests for fibrin degradation products (FDP) or D-dimer, which measure the breakdown products of fibrin, the main component of blood clots. High levels of these tests indicate excessive clotting and breakdown.
Treatment of DIC
The treatment of DIC aims to address the underlying cause of the condition, as well as to restore the balance of the blood clotting system. The treatment options include:
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Antibiotics, antivirals, or antifungals, to treat the infection that triggered DIC
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Blood transfusions, to replace the lost blood cells, platelets, and clotting factors
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Heparin, a blood thinner that prevents the formation of new blood clots
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Fresh frozen plasma (FFP), cryoprecipitate, or clotting factor concentrates, to replenish the clotting factors and fibrinogen
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Surgery, to remove the source of tissue damage or bleeding, such as a tumor, placenta, or spleen
Prevention of DIC
DIC can be prevented by avoiding or treating the conditions that can cause it, such as infections, trauma, cancer, or obstetric complications. Some of the preventive measures include:
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Practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands, cleaning wounds, and avoiding contact with sick people
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Seeking medical attention promptly for any signs of infection, such as fever, chills, or pus
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Following the doctor’s instructions for taking medications, such as antibiotics, chemotherapy, or blood thinners
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Having regular check-ups and screenings for cancer, especially if there is a family history or risk factors
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Receiving prenatal care and monitoring for any complications during pregnancy and delivery
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Avoiding snake bites, or seeking immediate medical help if bitten
Conclusion
It is a serious condition that can cause blood clots and bleeding in the body. It can be caused by a variety of diseases or conditions that affect the blood clotting system. Clinical signs and laboratory tests can be used to diagnose it. By addressing the underlying cause and restoring the balance of blood clots, it can be treated. By avoiding or treating the conditions that can trigger it, it can be prevented.
