Placental abruption leading to disseminated intravascular coagulation: a clinical case and short review

Abstract

We present the case of a primigravida with disseminated intravascular coagulation at 21 weeks’ gestation. Furthermore, we performed a short review of the evidence-based management of the condition. The patient presented with pain and vaginal bleeding. Clinical examination, laboratory studies, and an abdominal ultrasound produced inconclusive results about the origin of her disseminated intravascular coagulation. She was transferred to a tertiary facility where blood and plasma product transfusions were performed, and further investigations revealed fetal demise caused by placental abruption as the underlying cause of her disseminated intravascular coagulation. Cervical preparation was conducted with a balloon catheter and misoprostol. Surgical evacuation of her uterus was performed and she made a full recovery.

Keywords

• blood component transfusion
• cervical ripening
• disseminated intravascular coagulation
• misoprostol
• placental abruption