Which pattern is most typical of DIC on lab evaluation?

Which pattern is most typical of DIC on lab evaluation?

• A. Increased platelets
• B. Decreased platelets
• C. Increased fibrinogen
• D. Constant D‑dimer levels

Answer: (B)

Disseminated intravascular coagulation is a consumption coagulopathy, where clotting is activated everywhere and platelets along with coagulation factors are used up in forming microthrombi. That consumes platelets, so the typical lab finding is a low platelet count. In DIC you also commonly see prolonged clotting times and low fibrinogen, with elevated D-dimer from fibrin breakdown, all reflecting consumption and breakdown of clotting components. Therefore, a decreased platelet count best matches the pattern seen in DIC. Increased platelets would not fit, fibrinogen is usually decreased rather than increased, and D-dimer is typically elevated rather than constant.

Disseminated intravascular coagulation is a consumption coagulopathy, where clotting is activated everywhere and platelets along with coagulation factors are used up in forming microthrombi. That consumes platelets, so the typical lab finding is a low platelet count. In DIC you also commonly see prolonged clotting times and low fibrinogen, with elevated D-dimer from fibrin breakdown, all reflecting consumption and breakdown of clotting components. Therefore, a decreased platelet count best matches the pattern seen in DIC. Increased platelets would not fit, fibrinogen is usually decreased rather than increased, and D-dimer is typically elevated rather than constant.