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DIC Score Calculator

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

  1. Platelet Count:

    • > 100 × 10^9/L: 0 points
    • 50-100 × 10^9/L: 1 point
    • < 50 × 10^9/L: 2 points
  2. D-dimer/Fibrin Degradation Products:

    • No increase: 0 points
    • Moderate increase: 2 points
    • Strong increase: 3 points
  3. Fibrinogen:

    • ≥ 1.0 g/L: 0 points
    • < 1.0 g/L: 1 point
  4. 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

  1. Use recent laboratory values
  2. Ensure correct units
  3. Consider trending scores
  4. 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!

References:

  1. Levi M, Toh CH, Thachil J, Watson HG. Guidelines for the diagnosis and management of disseminated intravascular coagulation. British Committee for Standards in Haematology. Br J Haematol. 2009;145(1):24-33. doi:10.1111/j.1365-2141.2009.07600.x