Articles in Pathology & Laboratory Medicine (2)

Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is a life-threatening acquired syndrome characterized by systemic activation of coagulation and consumption coagulopathy, diagnosed via the ISTH overt DIC scoring system (≥5 points). Management requires aggressive treatment of the underlying trigger combined with targeted blood component support and anticoagulant therapy when indicated.

High anion gap metabolic acidosis (GOLD MARK) is defined by an arterial pH <7.35, serum bicarbonate <22 mmol/L, and an albumin-corrected anion gap >12 mmol/L driven by unmeasured circulating organic or inorganic anions. Gold-standard diagnosis relies on arterial blood gas analysis, electrolyte panels with calculated anion and osmolar gaps, and targeted toxicology or metabolic screening, while first-line therapy centers on immediate resuscitation and targeted removal or neutralization of the underlying toxin or metabolic derangement.