Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation in Dogs
Key takeaways
Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is a blood disorder in dogs that causes blood clots to form throughout the bloodstream.
- The creation of small blood clots results in depletion of platelets and clotting proteins necessary to control bleeding
- DIC develops as a secondary disorder to many serious diseases including severe inflammation or infection, immune-mediated diseases, gastric dilatation volvulus, heatstroke, rattlesnake bite, and neoplasia
- DIC progressive and visible symptoms are very difficult to detect before entering the bleeding stage of the disease, when excessive bleeding and pinpoint red spots on the skin are identified
- Blood tests are the primary diagnostic tool; imaging may also be required
- Treatment focuses on restoring normal circulation and includes IV fluid therapy and blood and plasma transfusions
- Specific treatment is also required for the primary condition
- The prognosis varies according to the stage of the disease and the underlying condition
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A closer look: Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation in Dogs
DIC is an uncommon, extreme complication in already sick patients.
Usually, the underlying condition is already life-threatening in itself. DIC is an extremely dangerous disease and is considered an emergency. The mortality rate is relatively high depending on the phase of the disease. In bleeding dogs, the survival rate is around 40%. In dogs that present without overt bleeding, the prognosis is still guarded and depends on the underlying cause.
Risk factors
DIC is a complication of other conditions. Dogs diagnosed with an associated condition are at risk of developing DIC. Dogs with predisposing factors to clotting issues, such as blood disorders that affect platelet counts, are at higher risk of developing DIC concurrently with other conditions.
DIC is a life-threatening complication of existing underlying illness. It is difficult to detect DIC until the condition has progressed, which further increases the mortality rate.
Possible causes
DIC is always acquired and presents as a complication of many diseases.
Main symptoms
DIC is a progressive and sometimes chronic disease. In the first stages, it might present with no visible signs, developing later into overt bleeding.
Testing and diagnosis
Diagnosing DIC early can be challenging as often no clinical signs are visible.
The diagnostic process includes blood tests to assess clotting time, as well as other blood work or blood culture to identify the underlying cause of DIC. Diagnostic imaging (X-ray, ultrasound, CT, and MRI) may also be necessary to identify the underlying cause.
Steps to Recovery
Treatment focuses on restoring proper circulation and includes:
- IV fluids therapy
- Blood and plasma transfusions
DIC is not expected to resolve without treatment of the underlying cause. Even with treatment of both the underlying cause and DIC, mortality rates are high.
The prognosis varies according to the stage of the disease and the underlying condition. In dogs that present with no bleeding symptoms, the prognosis is guarded. In dogs that already show signs of DIC the mortality rate is high (around 60%).
Prompt diagnosis and treatment increase the chances of survival.
Prevention
DIC is not contagious, but some primary conditions associated with it can be.
There are no specific preventive measures against DIC, but precautions exist for some of the primary conditions causing DIC.
Is Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation in Dogs common?
DIC is a common complication of several serious conditions, but is overall uncommon in dogs.
Typical Treatment
- Specific treatment for the primary condition
- IV fluid therapy
- Blood and plasma transfusions
