The dead fetus syndrome has become rare due to advances in obstetrical care. However, it has not disappeared entirely.
Clinical features:
(1) prolonged retention of a dead fetus
(2) development of disseminated intravascular coagulation with vaginal and other bleeding, hypofibrinogenemia, thrombocytopenia and schistocytosis
Pathogenesis:
(1) release of tissue thromboplastin from the decomposing fetus
(2) endometritis
Situations where it may occur today:
(1) woman unaware that she was pregnant
(2) multiple gestations with death of 1 fetus
(3) lack of medical care
Differential diagnosis: other causes of DIC during pregnancy
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Specialty: Obstetrics & Gynecology, Hematology Oncology
