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Disseminated intravascular coagulation — RACP Written MCQ

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ModerateHaematologyDisseminated intravascular coagulationRACP Written

A 67-year-old man with septic shock develops oozing from venepuncture sites. Platelets are 32 x 10^9/L, PT and APTT are prolonged, fibrinogen is low and D-dimer is markedly elevated. What is the most likely diagnosis?

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Correct answer: A — Disseminated intravascular coagulation

Sepsis with thrombocytopenia, prolonged clotting times, low fibrinogen and high D-dimer is typical of disseminated intravascular coagulation.

Reference: Australian blood and haematology guideline principles; Therapeutic Guidelines