Disseminated intravascular coagulation in gynecologic cancer.

Disturbances in the blood coagulation mechanism are seen by the obstetrician and gynecologist as rare complications of abruptio placentae, retained dead fetus syndrome, amniotic fluid embolism, toxemia, saline amnioinfusion, and septic abortion. Two cases of disseminated intravascular coagulation complicating gynecologic malignancy are presented. Laboratory studies showed thrombocytopenia, hypofibrinogenemia, and increased fibrin degradation products. Derangements of hemostasis in patients with malignancy are discussed from a clinical viewpoint.