An unusual cause of multiple cerebral hemorrhages: Drotrecogin alpha (activated protein C)

Abstract

The mortality of severe sepsis is still high, despite improved treatment modalities. It is known that treatment with DAA reduces mortality in this condition; however, major bleeding may occur as a complication. We present a patient with normal findings on platelet and coagulation tests who developed multiple cerebral hemorrhages after DAA infusion. Patients with septic shock who undergo DAA infusion should be followed closely for possible intracranial bleeding. When intracranial hemorrhage is detected in patients in the intensive care unit, treatment with DAA infusion should be questioned. Copyright © 2011 by the American Society of Neuroradiology.