coagulopathy
Pronunciation: co-AG-you-lop-ah-thee
Disorder of blood clotting mechanisms frequently complicating neurocritical care conditions.
Full Definition
Coagulopathy refers to any disorder of blood coagulation that results in abnormal bleeding or clotting tendencies. In neurocritical care, coagulopathy is particularly significant as it can complicate both the primary neurological condition and its management. Traumatic brain injury can trigger coagulopathy through release of tissue thromboplastin, while conditions like massive stroke or subarachnoid hemorrhage may be associated with both bleeding and thrombotic complications. Coagulopathy can be assessed through laboratory tests including prothrombin time, partial thromboplastin time, international normalized ratio, fibrinogen levels, and platelet count. Management requires careful balance between preventing thrombotic complications and avoiding excessive bleeding risk, particularly in patients requiring invasive monitoring or surgical interventions.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from specific clotting factor deficiencies; refers to broader hemostatic dysfunction.
In Context
- "The patient developed acute coagulopathy following massive traumatic brain injury with elevated INR and decreased fibrinogen." — laboratory report
- "Correction of coagulopathy is essential before placement of intracranial pressure monitors." — clinical protocol