Scoring algorithm for the diagnosis of DIC
| Platelet count, ×109/L |
| >100 = 0 |
| <100 = 1 |
| <50 = 2 |
| Level of fibrin markers (eg D-dimer, fibrin degradation products) |
| No increase = 0 |
| Increased but <5x upper limit of normal = 2 |
| Strong increase (≥5x upper limit of normal) = 3 |
| Prolonged prothrombin time* |
| <3 s = 0 |
| ≥3 s but <6 s = 1 |
| ≥ 6 s = 2 |
| Fibrinogen level |
| >1.0 g/L = 0 |
| ≤1.0 g/L = 1 |
| Platelet count, ×109/L |
| >100 = 0 |
| <100 = 1 |
| <50 = 2 |
| Level of fibrin markers (eg D-dimer, fibrin degradation products) |
| No increase = 0 |
| Increased but <5x upper limit of normal = 2 |
| Strong increase (≥5x upper limit of normal) = 3 |
| Prolonged prothrombin time* |
| <3 s = 0 |
| ≥3 s but <6 s = 1 |
| ≥ 6 s = 2 |
| Fibrinogen level |
| >1.0 g/L = 0 |
| ≤1.0 g/L = 1 |
This scoring system is only appropriate in patients with an underlying disorder that can be associated with DIC. A score of ≥5 points is compatible with DIC. Note that if the score is <5, consider repeating after 1 to 2 days.43
If prothrombin time values are only available as INRs, an INR value of >1.3 or >1.5 will generate 1 or 2 points, respectively (assuming the International Sensitivity Index value of the thromboplastin reagents used is close to 1).