Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)


Last Updated December 20th, 2021

What is DIC?

Disseminated intravascular coagulation is a medical condition where the normal process of blood clotting is altered due to an overreaction of the coagulation process (the process where blood clots are formed).  During the initial stages of DIC, a large number of blood clots are formed in the arteries.  In the later stages of this condition, there is severe blood loss which can be life-threatening.

To understand DIC, it is important to first understand what the process of coagulation is.  When there is a cut or injury to any part of the body, it leads to bleeding.  During the normal process of coagulation, the bleeding is stopped by forming coagulation at the bleeding site.  This is achieved with the help of three components namely fibrin (insoluble protein), thrombin (enzyme), and platelets (cell fragments).

Once the affected site heals, these blood clots are broken by our body.  During DIC, since large numbers of blood clots are formed in the arteries, the majority of the fibrin, thrombin, and platelets are already utilized by these blood clots.  Due to this, there are low levels of coagulation components leading to blood loss from various parts of the body.

What causes disseminated intravascular coagulation?

Disseminated intravascular coagulation can be caused due to various factors.  The underlying factors that cause DIC include leukemia, cancerous tumors, thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), severe bacterial infection, tissue injury, aneurysms, allergic reactions, hemangioma (non-cancerous tumor), sepsis, hemorrhage, pregnancy complications, snake bites, frostbite, and burns.

How many types of disseminated intravascular coagulation are present?

DIC is mainly divided into two types, namely acute DIC and chronic DIC.

Acute disseminated intravascular coagulation

Acute DIC involves the clotting process in the blood vessels, which is also the initial stage.  At the later stage, severe blood loss is experienced which can be life-threatening.

Chronic disseminated intravascular coagulation

Chronic DIC also involves the blood clotting process in the blood vessels, which is the initial stage.  This clotting process does not lead to blood loss in the later stages.  Chronic DIC is mainly associated with cancer such as leukemia.

Symptoms associated with disseminated intravascular coagulation

The signs and symptoms of DIC mainly depend on which type of DIC is affecting the body.  In the case of acute DIC, the onset is fast since the clotting process takes only hours or days to form, which produces the symptoms of bleeding and usually is life-threatening.  On the other hand, chronic DIC occurs over a prolonged period of time.  The clotting process happens at a slow pace which may be weeks or even months.  In the majority of cases, chronic DIC does not involve any symptoms.

Blood clotting symptoms

  • Include pain in the chest and difficulty breathing when the clots are formed near the vessels surrounding the heart and lungs.
  • If the blood clots are formed in the leg, it can lead to swelling of the leg, warmth to touch, as well as pain and redness in the affected area.
  • When the blood clots affect the head, the symptoms are highly serious and include headache, loss of vision, slurring of speech, lightheadedness, as well as paralysis to one side or even both sides of the body.
  • Multi-organ failure can occur if the blood clots are formed near the organs.

Bleeding symptoms

Signs and symptoms of bleeding may occur both internally and externally.  Both these types of bleeding are considered to be highly dangerous and include:

  • If the kidneys or bladder is involved, bleeding from the urine is noted.
  • Stomach or colon related problems can lead to rectal bleeding where dark red blood is witnessed when stools are passed. Dark or tarry stools are also an indication for internal bleeding.
  • Bleeding in the head can cause vision loss or blurred vision, headaches, and even seizures.
  • Excessive bleeding can be experienced at the site of cuts and wounds.
  • The mucosa is another area where external bleeding can be seen.
  • Purpura (red and brown bruises) and petechiae (red and purple circular discoloration) can be experienced on the skin.
  • Excessive menstrual bleeding.

Risk factors associated with DIC

As discussed earlier, DIC is caused due to an underlying health condition.  People suffering from the following health conditions have a higher risk of having DIC and these include:

  • Infection of the blood such as bacterial septicemia.
  • Recent surgery or injury.
  • Underlying cancer disease such as leukemia.
  • Aortic aneurysm.
  • Fetal demise.
  • Incomplete miscarriage due to ectopic pregnancy.
  • Blood transfusion.
  • Use of anesthesia during surgery.
  • Liver disease.

How is it diagnosed?

The diagnosis of DIC would involve the following procedure:

Physical exam

A thorough physical examination will be conducted on the patient to find for any signs and symptoms of bleeding and blood clots.  A complete medical history is assessed to find the underlying cause.  As discussed earlier, mucosal bleeding can be experienced with this condition and hence the doctor will look for signs of bleeding in the mucosal area.

Lab tests

A laboratory test is ordered by the doctor to check for any abnormalities in the cells as well as the clotting process.  Some of the laboratory tests are discussed below.

  • CBC or complete blood count is a laboratory test that measures the various components of the blood. These include RBCs, WBCs, and platelets.  Abnormalities in the platelet count can indicate a medical condition related to clotting.  Similarly, a blood smear test is conducted to check the health of red blood cells.
  • Prothrombin Time and Partial Thromboplastin Time tests are conducted to check for problems related to the coagulation process.
  • Fibrinogen test is conducted to check for the level of fibrinogen protein present in the blood. A person suffering from excessive bleeding may have low levels of fibrinogen.
  • Fibrin degradation test is conducted to check for the levels of fibrin degradation products. Abnormal levels of fibrin degradation products indicate that blood clots are not broken down appropriately.

Can DIC be treated?

Treatment for DIC mainly depends on the type and severity of the condition.  Stopping excessive bleeding is the first challenge in treating this condition.  The second challenge would be eliminating the clotting problems.  The treatment process for acute and chronic DIC is discussed below.  Addressing the underlying medical condition would go hand-in-hand along with treating the present symptoms.

Treatment for acute DIC

Excessive bleeding is the main problem faced when a person is affected by acute DIC.  Treatment is generally undertaken in a hospital setting.  Medications, blood transfusions, and breathing treatments are some of the treatment modes.  Blood transfusions are considered if the patient has lost a considerable amount of blood.  A blood transfusion may involve complete replacement of blood or only a few components of blood.  In some cases, only platelets are administered to replenish low platelet count.  On the other hand, clotting factors may be included along with platelets in the transfusion process.

Treatment for chronic DIC

People affected with chronic DIC generally experience problems with blood clots.  In such a scenario, doctors prefer to treat the patient with anticoagulants.  Anticoagulants are blood thinners that help in making the blood thinner.  It should be noted that blood thinners cannot dissolve blood clots, but can prevent them from getting bigger.  It also prevents further blood clots at a different location.

It is important to monitor the patient who is prescribed with blood thinners.  Regular lab tests are ordered to check the levels in order to prevent further complications.  Since the blood thinners make the blood thin, there is a higher chance of blood loss when the patient gets injured.  It would be difficult to control the blood loss from cuts or wounds and hence adequate precaution is required.  If a person is on blood thinners and needs to undergo surgery, it is highly recommended to consult the doctor for recommendations.  The doctor would generally ask the patient to stop taking these medications for a few days before and after the surgery.  This is true even with any minor surgery such as dental extracts.

Complications from DIC

Complications related to DIC can occur from both blood clots and excessive bleeding.  Some of the major complications are discussed below.

Inadequate oxygen supply

Oxygen is supplied to all parts of the body with the help of blood.  Hemoglobin and myoglobin present in the blood help in this process.  If a person is affected with DIC, there are a large number of blood clots that are formed.  These blood clots may block the blood supply to a bone or a limb and hence there is inadequate blood supply.  This makes the affected area to become weak and lose its strength due to inadequate blood and oxygen supply.  If this condition is not addressed immediately, there is a high chance of amputation of the affected limb.

Organ failure

The human body has various internal organs and each organ has its own function.  When blood clots due to DIC block the blood supply to these organs, there is inadequate blood flow.  This leads to abnormal functioning of the organs.  For example, if the blood supply to the kidneys is affected, it can result in abnormal filtering of the urine.  In extreme cases, dialysis may be required.  Similarly, if the blood clots block the blood supply to the lungs, there is malfunctioning of the lungs.  This can cause difficulty in breathing and hence the patient may end up with a ventilator.

Stroke

Stroke is a medical condition where blood vessels connecting the brain are blocked due to various reasons.  A blood clot is the most common cause of stroke.  In this case, oxygen and blood flow is affected and hence can lead to neurological problems such as paralysis.  Paralysis may affect either one side of the body or both sides of the body.  Immediate medical attention is required in this scenario followed by regular monitoring of the patient.

Easy bruising

Easy bruising is generally associated with acute DIC where the patient is affected by both blood clots and later with excessive bleeding.  This is generally a life-threatening condition since even a small wound or cut can cause very high blood loss.  Immediate medical attention is required to stop blood loss.  Further, a blood transfusion may be required if necessary.

Bottom line

As a matter of fact, the prognosis for DIC is not that great.  It has been estimated that around 50% of the patients affected with DIC may not survive.  On the contrary, early diagnosis can definitely improve the prognosis.  Regular checkups with the doctor and consumption of anticoagulants can improve the lifestyle.  It is important to be cautious and avoid any type of injury while on blood thinners.

 

Dos and Don'ts

Dos
  • Seek immediate medical treatment in case of blood clots or excessive bleeding.
  • Follow up regularly for monitoring.
  • Avoid supplements or foods that may interfere with anticoagulation therapy.
  • Follow precautionary measures and avoid getting hurt.
Don'ts
  • Delay medical treatment for blood clots and excessive bleeding.
  • Avoid regular checkups.
  • Consume foods and supplements that may interfere with anticoagulation.
  • Follow a lifestyle with higher risks of injury.

 

 

 

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What are Shiitake Mushrooms and why should you eat them? Shiitake Mushrooms are well known for their smoky and robust taste. However, did you know they are replete…
woman with abdominal pain holding ovulation calendar
Ovulation – facts to know about ovulation Learn how and when ovulation occurs, demystify common misconceptions, identify symptoms, methods of detection and right period for…
GM Diet: The fastest way to lose weight or yet another hoax diet? General Motors started this trend of extreme dieting for 7 straight days to ensure its employees were able…
CLA: A breakthrough weight loss supplement with minimal side effects Tried every weight loss supplement in the market with no substantial gain? Why not try CLA supplements, derived…
Psyllium Husk: More than just an effective natural laxative Psyllium husk, or isabgol, is a popular natural laxative . But did you in addition to regulating bowels,…
Goji berry: A traditional Chinese berry that packs the best of antioxidants Goji berry is an ancient berry that is considered to be power-packed with nutrients and antioxidants. Which means…
Tart Cherry: The healthiest excuse for taking that second serving of pie Tart cherry has been traditionally used in delectable desserts such as pies. Recent studies have revealed that its…
GERD heartburn
Heartburn: What are the exact symptoms and the best home remedies? There are easy home remedies for heartburn, which not only acts as a first aid when you experience…
amylase test
Amylase Test Amylase test is done by checking the level of this protein in the blood sample and also in…
fructosamine test
Fructosamine Test A fructosamine test measures blood sugar glucose content. Fructosamine level can indicate blood sugar level in past 2-3…
Rubella IgM test
Rubella IgM Test The Rubella IgM test is a blood test that is performed to diagnose the presence of the rubella…
antiHEV IgM test
Anti hepatitis E virus (Anti HEV) IgM Test Anti HEV IgM test determines the level of the IgM antibodies in the blood, The disease is often…
sodium blood test
Blood Sodium Test A blood sodium test measures the amount of sodium (an important electrolyte) in your body. It is also…
leptospira Igm test
Leptospira-IgM Test A Leptospira-IgM test is a blood test which is carried out to detect anti-Leptospira IgM antibody. Leptospirosis is…
blood ketone test
Blood Ketone (D3HB) Test The Blood Ketone Test measures and monitors the levels of ketone in the blood which is usually performed…
Hymenoplasty
Hymenoplasty Read on to find out all about hymenoplasty, the procedure, post-surgery care, the risks, and the benefits.
hidden benefits walking
9 benefits of walking we bet you didn’t know! Did you know walking can be the miracle pill for eternal youth? Everyone knows walking is good for…
Dragon Fruit – Blessing from Nature’s Basket Dragon fruit is packed with nutrients but low on calories. It is the dream food that can help…
xylitol gum
Xylitol : Is this the right sugar substitute for you? Discovered during World War 2 owing to sugar shortage, xylitol has become a common name in pharamaceutical industry.…
gallbladder diet tomato
Gallbladder surgery :Tips on post-operative care and diet What to eat post a gallbladder surgery? What are the key things to avoid if you had a…
black seed oil benefits
Black Seed Oil: What secret benefits could it bestow on your health? Black seeds or nigella seeds are tiny packets of health brimming with amazing benefits. Find out why should…
How can berberine supplements help you live longer and healthier? Berberine is a turmeric look-alike herbal extract that is credited with numerous health benefits ranging from diabetes cure…
How to correctly perform nasal irrigation using a Neti Pot? Neti pot has been a part of Ayurveda since centuries. This ancient tool is extremely effective in treating…
Experts reveal the safest ways to perform an enema at home The idea of pushing some up your rectal area might make you queasy but an enema could actually…
Quinine: How gin and tonic came to be known as a potent health elixir The discovery of quinine-containing tree bark is sometimes considered the most serendipitous medical discovery of the 17th century.
Barium-enema
Barium Enema Barium enema is also known as colon x-ray. Here, the patient is asked to consume small amount of…
GGt test
GGT – Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase Test GGT or gammaglutamyl transferase test is a liver function test that is used to detect the extent of…
Bloodtestalbumin
Albumin Test Albumin test or blood serum test is a liver function test that measures the amount of the protein…
blood elements analysis
Blood Element Analysis Test A blood element analysis is a blood test performed to measure the level of toxic elements such as…
anoscopy
Anoscopy Anoscopy is an invasive diagnostic procedure where a small device known as anoscope will be inserted in the…
Diabetes blood test
Diabetic Profile The diabetic profile is a set of tests used for testing and monitoring the various kinds of Diabetes…
oral hygiene tips
6 shocking consequences of bad oral hygiene (and how to avoid them) Did you know bad breath is not just turning off, but also harms your body in ways you…
avocado benefits
Avocado: 15 reasons why this fruit should be a staple in your diet Did you know that the word avocado literally means "testicles". Don't get grossed out as this power-packed fruit…
Cayenne: The remarkable benefits of these red hot chili peppers These may make you rush for a glass of water, but cayenne pepper is actually a healthy additive…
Kava: Is it the healthy substitute for alcohol you have been waiting for? Native to the beautiful South Pacific islands, Kava is a famous beverage rooted in the local culture. It…
How seitan proved to be a blessing in disguise for vegans worldwide Can only meat-eaters enjoy delicious juicy steaks and burgers? With seitan, the best meat substitute available today,even vegans…
How can Kegels help you overcome weak pelvic muscles & incontinence? Kegel exercises are pelvic floor strengthening exercises that can help you overcome incontinence issues that rise out of…
Mood swings
The real reasons for your mood swings and how to overcome them Are you prone to heated moods frequently? Do you also feel bouts of depressive feeling creeping up on…
Urologist: When should you visit one and why? A urologist can treat not only genitourinary problems of both men and women but also can treat various…
glucose-tolerance
Oral Glucose Tolerance Test – GTT Glucose tolerance test (or Oral GTT) is used to detect the onset of diabetes or prediabetes conditions. It…
ASTtest-liver
AST- Aspartate Aminotransferase Test AST test is a blood test that is used to measure the level of a particular liver enzyme…
ANTIPHOSPHOLIPIDANTIBODY(APL)_IgG
Antiphospholipid (APL) antibody-IgG The Antiphospholipid Antibody testing is a blood test used to determine an autoimmune disorder called Antiphospholipid syndrome linked…
Strep throat pain
Anti-Streptolysin-O Test The ASO or Anti-Streptolysin-O is a blood test designed to check for the presence of streptococcus bacterial infection…
vdrl test syphilis
VDRL Test The VDRL test is a blood test that is used to diagnose sexually transmitted or venereal diseases, primarily…
malarial antigen test
Malaria Antigen Test A malaria antigen test is a rapid diagnostic test (RDT) that can detect malarial antigens (proteins) in your…
iron deficiency profile
Iron Deficiency Profile An iron deficiency profile is a battery of blood tests which are performed in order to determine the…
Hepatitis A virus infected liver
Hepatitis A Virus (HAV) Total Blood test to look for IgM antibodies to know if you are infected with Hepatitis A virus (HAV),…
stress depressed anxiety
Are you depressed or just stressed? Know when to see a doctor Why are some people more anxious than others? Is being depressed the same as feeling sad? Have you…
sugar toxic health
Sugar: 7 new shocking truths revealed about the sweet poison Can drinking soda bring you closer to death? Is sugar slowly poisoning you and your family? You would…
L-theanine attention
L-Theanine: Better sleep, higher focus, and many other benefits Did you know that L-theanine found in green tea can make you sleep better and be focused at…
High Fiber Diet – Fire up your fiber intake for these health benefits! Regular bowels, healthy detox, higher immunity, and guaranteed weight loss - a high fiber diet can bring all…
Agave nectar: The bitter truth about this sweetener revealed Agave nectar is considered to be sweeter than the normal table sugar and even contains higher amounts of…
gout diet purines
Gout Diet : Get relief from painful joints by eating these foods Are you a victim of this painful condition? Are medications providing only short relief? Find a list of…
DHEA wrinkles
DHEA: Now get unbelievable age defiance with this wonder hormone! DHEA is known popularly as the age-defying hormone. This supplement is widely used to slow down aging and…
Oil of Oregano: The one-stop essential oil you’ve been looking for Are you plagued by a weak immune system? High body inflammation accompanied by pain and infections? Why not…
Pescatarian Diet 101: What are the inherent health advantages of this diet? People opt to become a pescatarian in order to enrich their bodies with the essential health benefits that…
What is the right way to take a pregnancy test? A pregnancy test is undertaken to determine if you have conceived. A home pregnancy test is the most…
Inhale oxygen, exhale worries: The top breathing exercises and how to perform them Performing the breathing exercise is like becoming mindful of how you breathe.  Here is a list of breathing…
hemoglobin variant analysis
Hemoglobin Variant Analysis Hemoglobin variant analysis is a blood test that is used to detect the presence of hemoglobin variants which…
cystatin C
Cystatin C Test Cystatin C is a specific single-chain protein that is found in body fluids and is a biomarker for…
piles fissure fistula
Allopathy vs homeopathy vs ayurveda treatment for piles, fissures, and fistula Read to know the best form of treatment among allopathy, homeopathy,or ayurveda for piles, fissures, and fistula
liver detox facts
7 liver detox facts and why ignoring these could kill you! Are you taking care of this organ that handles over 500 different vital functions in your body? Your…

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