DIC

Learning Objectives

1. Analyze DIC's pathophysiology, including common precipitating causes, to comprehend the cascade of events leading to coagulation dysfunction.
2. Apply knowledge of DIC pathophysiology to evaluate therapeutic interventions' efficacy in clinical trials, enhancing patient management in critical care settings.
3. Compile a comprehensive list of conditions causing DIC in critically ill children to facilitate timely diagnosis and targeted treatment strategies.

Pre-Reading Resources

QStream Multiple Choice Questions

A 6-year-old girl with newly diagnosed acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is admitted to the pediatric oncology unit for chemotherapy initiation. On the third day of induction therapy, she develops fever, tachycardia, and petechiae on her lower extremities. Laboratory studies reveal thrombocytopenia, prolonged prothrombin time (PT), and elevated D-dimer levels. Which of the following best describes the pathophysiology of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) in this patient?

• A. Activation of the extrinsic pathway of coagulation
• B. Enhanced platelet aggregation and adhesion
• C. Widespread microvascular thrombosis
• D. Consumption of clotting factors and platelets

Pediatric Critical Care Outline Specifications

Refer to this page for formatting details: