Which signs are consistent with disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)?

Which signs are consistent with disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)?

• A. Hypertension
• B. Jaundice without bleeding
• C. Petechiae and ecchymosis with bleeding
• D. Nausea

Answer: (C)

Disseminated intravascular coagulation involves a consumption of clotting factors and platelets due to widespread activation of the coagulation system, leading to both microvascular thrombosis and severe bleeding. The hallmark is bleeding in combination with signs of fragile capillaries, such as petechiae and ecchymosis, because platelets and clotting factors are being used up. This makes petechiae and ecchymosis with bleeding the best fit for DIC. Hypertension isn’t a typical feature of DIC. Jaundice can occur if there’s liver involvement or hemolysis, but the key clue in DIC is the simultaneous bleeding with skin manifestations like petechiae and ecchymosis. Nausea is nonspecific and not a characteristic sign of DIC.

Disseminated intravascular coagulation involves a consumption of clotting factors and platelets due to widespread activation of the coagulation system, leading to both microvascular thrombosis and severe bleeding. The hallmark is bleeding in combination with signs of fragile capillaries, such as petechiae and ecchymosis, because platelets and clotting factors are being used up. This makes petechiae and ecchymosis with bleeding the best fit for DIC.

Hypertension isn’t a typical feature of DIC. Jaundice can occur if there’s liver involvement or hemolysis, but the key clue in DIC is the simultaneous bleeding with skin manifestations like petechiae and ecchymosis. Nausea is nonspecific and not a characteristic sign of DIC.