Disseminated intravascular coagulation: current concepts.

Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is an acquired disorder in which normal hemostatic balance is disturbed. There is excessive thrombin formation leading to fibrin deposition in microcirculation and consequent ischemic organ damage. The etiology is multifactorial. A number of medical, surgical, oncological and obstetrical conditions can cause DIC. The diagnosis is essentially clinical supported by laboratory parameters and a scoring system based on these. The mainstay of treatment is correction of underlying cause and hemostatic support with replacement of coagulation factors. The role of heparin therapy and other therapeutic options including activated protein C, antithrombin III etc. have also been discussed.