Pathology Tests Explained

Glossary


Disseminated intravascular coagulation


Also known as: DIC

Disseminated intravascular coagulation is a complex acute condition that can arise from a variety of situations including some surgical procedures, trauma, infections, cancer, poisonous snake bites, liver disease, and postpartum (after the delivery of a baby).

With DIC, clotting factors are abnormally activated and then used up throughout the body. This creates numerous blood clots and at the same time may cause excessive bruising and bleeding.