Coagulopathy and platelet disorders in critically ill patients

Coagulation disorders are common among intensive care patients and may range from isolated thrombocytopenia or prolonged global clotting tests to complex defects, such as disseminated intravascular coagulation. There are many causes for deranged coagulation in critically ill patients and each of these underlying disorders may require specific therapeutic management. Hence, a proper differential diagnosis and the initiation of adequate (supportive) treatment strategies are crucial to reduce morbidity and mortality in critically ill patients with coagulation abnormalities. (Minerva Anestesiol 2010;76:851-9