What laboratory finding is commonly associated with DIC?

A low platelet count is a hallmark laboratory finding associated with disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). DIC is a complex disorder characterized by the systemic activation of coagulation, which leads to the formation of microthrombi and ultimately results in a consumption coagulopathy. As the clotting factors and platelets are used up in the formation of these small clots throughout the vascular system, the platelet count decreases significantly. This consumption leads to the bleeding complications often seen in patients with DIC, in addition to other laboratory abnormalities such as increased fibrin degradation products.

Other options, such as increased hemoglobin and elevated white blood cell count, do not typically correlate with DIC in the same way. Increased erythropoietin levels might occur in conditions of chronic hypoxia, but they are not a direct finding related to the acute and consumptive nature of DIC. Thus, a low platelet count is the most reflective laboratory finding of the systemic effects of DIC.