ISTH Criteria: Sensitivity and Specificity

*Platelet count (>100 × 109/L = 0, <100 × 109/L = 1, <50 × 109/L = 2)

*Elevated fibrin-related marker (e.g., fibrin degradation products or D-dimer) (no increase, 0; moderate increase, 2; strong increase, 3)[a]

*Prolonged prothrombin time (<3 secs = 0, >3 but <6 secs = 1, >6 secs = 2)

*Fibrinogen level (>1.0 g/L = 0, <1.0 g/L = 1)

[a    In most prospective validation studies, D-dimer assays were used and a value above the upper limit of normal (0.4 mcg/L) was considered moderately elevated, whereas a value >10 times the upper limit of normal (4.0 mcg/L) was considered as a strong increase.]

Calculate score

If >=5: compatible with overt DIC

If <5: no overt DIC; repeat next 1–2 days