Platelet transfusion is indicated in disseminated intravascular coagulation when platelets are within which range if there is active bleeding?

• A. 20,000 to 50,000 per microliter
• B. 100,000 to 150,000 per microliter
• C. 5,000 to 10,000 per microliter
• D. 150,000 to 200,000 per microliter

Answer: (A)

In DIC, platelets are consumed faster than they’re produced, so the bleeding risk rises as the platelet count falls. When there’s active bleeding, the goal of platelet transfusion is to raise the count to a level that supports clot formation despite ongoing consumption. Practically, maintaining platelets around 50,000 per microliter helps improve hemostasis; thus, a count in the range of about 20,000 to 50,000 per microliter with active bleeding is when transfusion is indicated to help control hemorrhage. Counts above roughly 50,000 are generally not transfused solely for this purpose unless bleeding persists or a procedure is planned, while counts well below that (e.g., severely low like 5,000–10,000) would also prompt transfusion but the question emphasizes the range where transfusion is indicated in the setting of active bleeding.