In DIC, what typically happens to fibrinogen levels?

In DIC, what typically happens to fibrinogen levels?

• A. Decreased fibrinogen (<200 mg/dL)
• B. Increased fibrinogen (>500 mg/dL)
• C. Normal fibrinogen
• D. Fibrinogen not measured

Answer: (A)

In DIC, widespread activation of coagulation consumes clotting factors, including fibrinogen. As thrombin generates fibrin to form clots in the microvasculature, circulating fibrinogen is used up faster than it can be produced, so levels fall. Although fibrinogen can rise as an acute-phase reactant in some inflammatory states, the consumption driving DIC typically lowers fibrinogen, often to below 200 mg/dL and sometimes even lower in severe cases. Thus, the typical pattern is a decreased fibrinogen level.

In DIC, widespread activation of coagulation consumes clotting factors, including fibrinogen. As thrombin generates fibrin to form clots in the microvasculature, circulating fibrinogen is used up faster than it can be produced, so levels fall. Although fibrinogen can rise as an acute-phase reactant in some inflammatory states, the consumption driving DIC typically lowers fibrinogen, often to below 200 mg/dL and sometimes even lower in severe cases. Thus, the typical pattern is a decreased fibrinogen level.