Which of the following results would indicate a need to investigate for disseminated intravascular coagulopathy?

The identification of a low platelet count is crucial when investigating for disseminated intravascular coagulopathy (DIC). In DIC, there is widespread activation of the clotting cascade, leading to small blood clots forming throughout the vessels. This process consumes platelets and clotting factors, resulting in a significant drop in platelet counts.

Low platelet levels are a characteristic finding in DIC, and they can signify the consumption of platelets due to the ongoing coagulation process. Thus, when a low platelet count is encountered in a patient presenting with symptoms suggestive of bleeding, organ dysfunction, or signs of thrombosis, it serves as an important indicator that further evaluation for DIC may be warranted. This evaluation could include additional tests such as assessing the prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), and levels of fibrin degradation products like D-dimer.

In this context, a normal PT or a high normal PT might not provide sufficient evidence to suspect DIC, especially since PT can still be normal in early stage DIC. Low D-dimer levels are also not indicative of DIC, as typically D-dimer levels are elevated in this condition due to increased fibrin breakdown. Therefore