A. Risk assessment:

Does the patient have an underlying disorder known to be associated with overt DIC?

If yes: proceed

If no: do not use this algorithm

B. Order global coagulation tests:

PT, platelet count, fibrinogen, fibrin related marker

C. Score the test results

1) Platelet count (≥100 × 10⁹/l = 0, <100 × 10⁹/l = 1, <50 × 10⁹/l = 2)

2) Elevated fibrin marker (e.g. D-dimer, fibrin degradation products) (no increase = 0, moderate increase = 2, strong increase = 3)

3) Prolonged PT (<3 s = 0, >3 but <6 s = 1, >6 s = 2)

4) Fibrinogen level (>1 g/l = 0, <1 g/l = 1)

D. Calculate score:

≥5: compatible with overt DIC, repeat score daily

<5: suggestive for non-overt DIC, repeat next 1 - 2 d