Coagulación intravascular diseminada

Abstract

Although heterogeneous in origin, disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) can be viewed as a syndrome and not as a disease or a symptom, but a syndrome characterized by a dynamic process of intravascular coagulation. DIC is an acquired disorder, in which first the hemostatic system is activated, and later on, activates platelets and the fibrinolytic process. This disorder can be manifest by hemorrhages or thrombosis, or a combination of both. DIC occurs in a wide spectrum of diseases, and it is imperative to recognize the disorders as a secondary condition. When a diagnosis of DIC is established, the primary focus is a search for treatment of the initiating disorders. Each patient's clinical presentation is partially dependent on the underlying disease, and the rate of onset and severity of the intravascular coagulation. In the report the authors describe the characteristics for an adequate differential diagnosis. Most therapies of DIC are empiric. The primary disease should be identified and quickly and effectively treated.