Recurrent hemorrhagic choroidal detachment associated with disseminated intravascular coagulation

We report the case of a patient with recurrent hemorrhagic choroidal detachments after combined cataract and filtering surgery associated with exacerbation of chronic disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). It was postulated that the formation and drainage of the hemorrhagic choroidal detachments induced thrombin generation and consequently coagulation factor and platelet consumption. Fibrinolysis resulted in the release of fibrin-degradation products (FDP). Consumption of clotting factors and platelets combined with FDP release may result in decompensation of a chronic DIC state and cause a bleeding diathesis. This case shows the need for complete hematologic evaluation of patients with hemostatic abnormalities.