QuestionSBA
QuestionChoice
von Willebrand's disease is a lifelong coagulopathy. It is less likely in this case because there is no mention of recurrent bleeding before this episode. The acute history after a major trauma makes DIC more likely.
10027874
d
von Willebrand's disease
QuestionChoice
Haematological malignancy can cause disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) but is less likely in this cause because of the acute setting, following a major trauma.
10027873
c
Haematological malignancy
QuestionChoice
Haemophilia is a lifelong coagulopathy which increases bleeding. For this case, the acute history following a major trauma makes DIC more likely.
10027872
b
Haemophilia
QuestionChoice
Vitamin K deficiency is an acquired coagulopathy. It is unlikely in this case because of the acute onset and associated major trauma.
10027875
e
Vitamin K deficiency
QuestionChoice
DIC is a condition where the clotting cascade is inappropriately activated, resulting in many small thrombi forming and using up the clotting factors. The thrombi cause a purpuric rash under the skin and the absence of clotting factors means that the patient is more likely to bleed. The risk factors for DIC include major trauma (in this case), sepsis, obstetric emergencies and malignancy.
10027871
a
Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)
Concept
Chapter
2693
6012
Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)
Topic
161
Emergency Medicine
17972
A 35-year-old woman is admitted to the ICU with a number of injuries following a high-speed road traffic collision. She is currently unconscious and intubated. However, a purpuric rash is noted across her chest and she starts bleeding from the cannula sites and her blood pressure is dropping.

What is the likely diagnosis?
a