Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC) Score
Understanding DIC Score
The DIC Score is a diagnostic tool used to assess the severity of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), a serious condition where blood clots form throughout the body's blood vessels. This scoring system, developed by the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH), helps clinicians diagnose and monitor DIC progression.
What is DIC Scoring?
DIC scoring evaluates four key components:
- Platelet count
- Fibrin-related markers (D-dimer or fibrin degradation products)
- Fibrinogen level
- Prothrombin time
Each component is assigned points based on specific criteria, and the total score helps determine the likelihood and severity of DIC.
Score Interpretation
Total Score:
- ≥ 5 points: Compatible with overt DIC - requires daily score monitoring
- < 5 points: Suggestive of non-overt DIC - repeat scoring in 1-2 days
Score Components
-
Platelet Count:
- > 100 × 10^9/L: 0 points
- 50-100 × 10^9/L: 1 point
- < 50 × 10^9/L: 2 points
-
D-dimer/Fibrin Degradation Products:
- No increase: 0 points
- Moderate increase: 2 points
- Strong increase: 3 points
-
Fibrinogen:
- ≥ 1.0 g/L: 0 points
- < 1.0 g/L: 1 point
-
Prothrombin Time:
- < 3 seconds prolongation: 0 points
- 3-6 seconds prolongation: 1 point
- > 6 seconds prolongation: 2 points
Clinical Significance
High Score (≥ 5)
- Indicates overt DIC
- Requires immediate medical attention
- Daily score monitoring recommended
Low Score (< 5)
- Suggests non-overt DIC
- Requires monitoring
- Repeat scoring in 1-2 days recommended
Important Considerations
- Results should be interpreted by healthcare professionals
- Score should be considered alongside clinical presentation
- Regular monitoring is essential for disease progression
- Underlying conditions must be treated
When to Seek Medical Attention
Consult healthcare providers immediately if:
- Score is ≥ 5
- Bleeding symptoms present
- Clotting symptoms present
- Underlying condition worsens
Limitations
This calculator:
- Is a screening tool
- Requires laboratory values
- May not capture all cases
- Should be used with clinical judgment
Tips for Accurate Results
- Use recent laboratory values
- Ensure correct units
- Consider trending scores
- Document underlying conditions
Risk Factors for DIC
- Sepsis
- Trauma
- Malignancy
- Obstetric complications
- Severe tissue injury
- Snake bites
- Severe allergic reactions
Clinical Applications
DIC Score is valuable for:
- Initial diagnosis
- Monitoring progression
- Treatment guidance
- Prognosis assessment
Start calculating now to assess DIC severity!
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