Fibrinogen levels are frequently low in patients with DIC. However, because fibrinogen is an acute phase reactant, it can be elevated in patients with DIC associated with a chronic inflammatory disorder.

What happens to fibrinogen in DIC?

Fibrinogen is an acute phase reactant and its plasma level can remain elevated for prolonged periods despite ongoing consumption in DIC. Hence, hypofibrinogenaemia for diagnosis of DIC carries very low sensitivity and was associated only with severe forms of DIC.

What labs are elevated in DIC?

Laboratory findings suggestive of DIC include a low platelet count, elevated D-dimer concentration, decreased fibrinogen concentration, and prolongation of clotting times such as prothrombin time (PT).