What is the biological assessment for DIC?

“DIC (disseminated intravascular coagulation) is not a situation encountered in general practice“, emphasizes Dr. Anaïs Briand general practitioner. “It’s about a serious complication often observed in the intensive care unit”.
► The DIC is a thrombohemorrhagic syndrome, that is to say a failure of the coagulation system which leads to an uncontrolled and pathological activation of coagulation. This results in both excessive bleeding (hemorrhagic syndrome) and blood clots in limbs and organs.

► The diagnosis of DIC is based on a set of biological examinations which reflect the activation of coagulation. “First, we ask for a complete blood count (NFS) in order to identify a thrombocytopenia, i.e. a decrease in the number of platelets, which are used to form clots. Several coagulation tests, such as the prothrombin count (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (APT) make it possible to globally explore coagulation and will be disturbed in the event of excessive activation of coagulation“.

Finally, testing evaluating the phenomenon of fibrinolysis are essential. “These tests, such as fibrinogen or D-dimer assaymeasure the body’s ability to dissolve blood clots.

Thanks to Dr Anaïs Briand general practitioner.