Coagulopathy following major trauma hemorrhage: lytic, lethal and a lack of fibrinogen

Trauma-induced coagulopathy (TIC) is present soon after injury and is associated with increased transfusion requirements and worse outcomes. The pathophysiological mechanisms, which result in the widespread derangements of hemostasis following major trauma hemorrhage, are as yet not fully defined. Profound activation of fibrinolytic pathways and fibrinogen depletion appear to be fundamental processes in the development of TIC and offer potential therapeutic targets. Collaborative and multi-disciplinary scientific study is thus a research priority in order to characterize the primary drivers of TIC and develop targeted and efficacious treatment strategies.