What does a fibrinogen level of less than 100 mg/dL indicate?

A fibrinogen level of less than 100 mg/dL is indicative of severe coagulopathy. Fibrinogen is a critical protein synthesized by the liver that plays a vital role in the blood coagulation process. It functions as a precursor to fibrin, which forms the meshwork that stabilizes blood clots. When fibrinogen levels drop below this threshold, it signifies a substantial impairment in the body's ability to form clots, leading to an increased risk of bleeding and potentially life-threatening hemorrhagic complications.

In clinical practice, such a low fibrinogen level may be observed in various conditions, including disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), severe liver disease, or massive transfusion situations, where the protein has been diluted or consumed at a higher rate than it can be produced. Thus, recognizing a fibrinogen level below 100 mg/dL is vital in assessing the coagulopathy severity and urgency of intervention needed to manage bleeding risks and stabilize the patient.