Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation Presenting with Cutaneous Symptoms

Abstract

Disseminated Intravascular coagulation may be an important and determining factor in the pathophysiology of some of the cutaneous vascular manifestations. The use of heparin in this condition seems to be the therapy of choice and sometimes it is life saving. Hence, the importance of being aware of the possibility and polymorphism of this phenomenon. Three cases are described where the presenting symptoms of the disease were mainly dermatological.

Disseminated intravascular coagulation associated with toxic epidermal necrolysis (Lyell's syndrome)

“…The predominant target organs affected by DIC are the kidneys in 68% and the skin in 65% (Robboy et al, 1973). DIC should be considered as the most serious cause of a variety of vascular skin disorders associated with necrosis (Haim et al, 1970). But DIC is a secondary disorder (Rodriguez-Erdmann, 1974) as may be TEN.…”

The skin in disseminated intravascular coagulation.

“…However when initial coagulation-test observations were equivocal, punch biopsy of the skin yielded fibrin thrombi and thus was helpful in the early diagnosis of DIC, later confirmed by serial coagulation studies. Recognition of the types of skin lesions associated with DIC permits prompt diagnosis and institution of appropriate therapy.The skin is an important organ in disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) (Haim et al^ 1970). Cutaneous alterations are frequently the first sign of this disease and their recognition can result in prompt diagnosis and institution of effective therapy.…”

“…The skin is an important organ in disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) (Haim et al^ 1970). Cutaneous alterations are frequently the first sign of this disease and their recognition can result in prompt diagnosis and institution of effective therapy.…”