DIC (Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation; Defibrinogenation Syndrome; Coagulopathy) |
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DESCRIPTIONDisseminated intravascular coagulation is a serious disruption of blood-clotting mechanisms, resulting in hemorrhaging or internal bleeding. This disorder is a complication of an underlying disorder. Blood vessels and blood in all parts of the body are involved.
Appropriate health care includes:
Hospitalization.
Physician's monitoring of general condition and medications.
Surgery to correct the underlying disorder (sometimes).
Self-care after diagnosis.
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
Bleeding and hemorrhaging from any or several body parts. Bleeding may be heavy. Common signs of bleeding include:
-- Bloody vomit or red or black stools.
-- Vaginal bleeding.
-- Red or cloudy urine.
-- Unexplained bruising.
Severe abdominal or back pain caused by bleeding into body organs.
Convulsions (rare).
Coma (rare).
CAUSES
Depletion of blood-clotting components, causing widespread bleeding. This condition can be the result of:
Pregnancy abnormalities, such as placenta previa, abruptio placenta, or toxemia.
Widespread or major infection.
Widespread cancer.
Some kinds of surgery.
Widespread tissue destruction, as with extensive burns.
Poisonous snakebite.
Transfusion of mismatched blood.
RISK FACTORS
Poor nutrition.
Illness that has lowered resistance.
PREVENTING COMPLICATIONS OR RECURRENCEObtain prompt medical treatment for the underlying causes.
BASIC INFORMATION
MEDICAL TESTS
Your own observation of symptoms.
Medical history and physical exam by a doctor.
Laboratory blood tests, especially of the blood-clotting mechanism.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
Kidney failure.
Brain damage, with seizures or coma.
Shock.
Death.
PROBABLE OUTCOME
Depends on the severity. If the underlying cause of the child's DIC is treated promptly, full recovery is likely.
TREATMENT
HOME CARE
Children with this condition are often desperately ill and require intensive hospital care. Family members can help by maintaining a positive, hopeful attitude.
During your child's recovery, don't scrub or take scabs off sores. This may trigger new bleeding.
MEDICATION
Your doctor may prescribe:
Blood transfusions or blood-component infusions.
Heparin (an anticoagulant administered by injection).
See Medications section for information regarding medicines your doctor may prescribe.
ACTIVITY
Your child should rest in bed until your doctor approves a return to normal activity. The child may read or watch TV.
DIET & FLUIDS
No special diet.
OK TO GO TO SCHOOL?When signs of infection have decreased, appetite returns, and alertness, strength, and feeling of well-being will allow.
CALL YOUR DOCTOR IF
Your child has symptoms of DIC.
Any bleeding recurs or the child's abdomen swells rapidly during treatment.
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