Disseminated intravascular coagulation

Also known as DIC. Process that can ultimately lead to multiorgan dysfunction, DIC is a robust activation of coagulation, fibrin formation and fibrinolysis, microthrombi formation, and platelet comsumption. In the context of transfusion medicine, consider this possibility in patients exhibiting a poor response to platelet transfusions, especially when the 1 hour post-transfusion platelet count is consistent with a non-immune etiology.