Which obstetric condition is the single most common cause of disseminated intravascular coagulation in pregnancy?

• A Placenta previa
• B Retained dead fetus
• C Abruptio placentae ✓
• D Severe preeclampsia

Explanation

Abruptio placentae is the leading cause of DIC in pregnancy because thromboplastin released from the retroplacental clot and damaged decidua triggers widespread coagulation, consuming fibrinogen and platelets. Severe preeclampsia and HELLP can cause DIC but less commonly than abruption. Retained dead fetus produces a slow, chronic low-grade consumption state over weeks rather than acute fulminant DIC. Placenta previa rarely activates coagulation at all.

Reference: Williams Obstetrics, 26th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.