Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is primarily caused by underlying conditions that trigger widespread inflammation and abnormal blood clotting throughout the body.
DIC isn't a disease in itself; it's a serious complication of other health problems. The main culprit behind DIC is inflammation resulting from an infection, injury, or illness.
Here's a more detailed breakdown of the causes:
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Sepsis: This is the most frequent cause of DIC. Sepsis is a systemic inflammatory response to an infection, leading to widespread clotting and depletion of clotting factors.
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Severe Trauma: Significant injuries, especially those involving tissue damage, can release substances that activate the clotting cascade.
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Cancer: Certain cancers, particularly acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) and advanced solid tumors, can be associated with DIC.
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Obstetrical Complications: Conditions such as placental abruption, amniotic fluid embolism, and eclampsia can trigger DIC.
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Major Surgery: Extensive surgical procedures can sometimes lead to DIC due to tissue trauma and inflammation.
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Severe Allergic Reactions: Anaphylaxis, a severe and life-threatening allergic reaction, can, in rare cases, cause DIC.
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Snake Bites: The venom from some snakes contains substances that can disrupt the clotting process and cause DIC.
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Severe Liver Disease: While less common, severe liver dysfunction can impair the production of clotting factors and lead to DIC.
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Blood Transfusion Reactions: Incompatible blood transfusions can trigger an immune response that results in DIC.
In summary, DIC arises from an underlying condition that activates the body's clotting system abnormally, leading to widespread clotting and, paradoxically, increased bleeding risk due to the depletion of clotting factors.
