Causes, Risk Factors, And Complications Of Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC)

Organ Failure

Disseminated intravascular coagulation can lead to multiple organ failure. The latter is considered a process in which more than one organ system, such as the renal system, fails in the patient's body. It is devastating and often associated with severe sepsis. However, it can also be present with pancreatitis, burns, fulminant infections, and traumas. It is considered a medical emergency with a mortality rate of eighty percent, mostly among septic patients.

Some organ failure symptoms are excessive fatigue or drowsiness, sudden or unexplained shortness of breath, a reduced amount of urine, and retention of fluids. Patients need to call 911 if they experience any of these symptoms. Due to the abnormal blood clotting throughout the body's blood vessels, disseminated intravascular coagulation can lead to tissue damage and, consequently, to multiple organ failure.

Blood Transfusion Reaction

A blood transfusion is a safe procedure that aims to replace blood loss caused by surgery, illness, or trauma. Patients receive blood transfusions through an intravenous line. In some cases, only some parts of blood are transfused. However, when individuals have an adverse reaction to a transfusion, it can lead to scary complications. This includes disseminated intravascular coagulation.

An adverse reaction occurs when the patient's immune system destroys red blood cells given during the transfusion. This process is medically known as hemolysis. One of the typical causes of hemolysis is receiving the incorrect blood product due to human error. If an adverse reaction occurs, the transfusion is stopped immediately, and vital signs are monitored. The specialist will determine the most appropriate treatment. On the other hand, plasma transfusions are considered a treatment alternative for patients with massive bleeding types of disseminated intravascular coagulation.