DIC

Investigations :

• FBC - 
low platelet count, 
decreased Hb from haemolysis and 
presence of schizocytes (fragmented red cells) on blood film

• CLOTTING - 
PT may be normal, prolonged or shortened. 
APTT is variable and only prolonged in 50-60% of patients with DIC.

• Fibrinogen - decreased. 
Acute phase protein, therefore may be increased by primary disorder causing DIC (for instance, acute sepsis)

• D-dimers / FDP - increased

• Clotting factors V, VIII, X, XII decreased

• Decreased protein C and anti-thrombin III levels

• Biochemical evidence of organ failure including renal and liver failure / dysfunction