What is the consequence of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)?

The consequence of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) primarily involves the development of multiple thromboses. In DIC, there is an abnormal activation of the coagulation cascade leading to the formation of small blood clots throughout the body's microcirculation. These tiny clots can obstruct blood flow to various organs, resulting in multiple thromboses.

This condition can occur in response to various triggers, such as severe infections, trauma, or certain obstetric complications, leading to widespread clot formation and subsequently depleting clotting factors and platelets. The result is a paradoxical state where thrombosis and bleeding can occur simultaneously, though the emphasis here is on the formation of many clots due to the initial phase of DIC.

Understanding that while DIC can lead to complications such as excessive bleeding and decreased blood pressure, these are often results of the underlying problem and not the direct consequence of DIC itself. The persistence of clot formation is what sets DIC apart, making the establishment of multiple thromboses a key characteristic of this disorder.