Invasion of the blood stream by bacteria is a common cause of what is know as disseminated intravascular coagulation, or DIC; it is a condition in whit clotting of blood is widespread in the body.Toxins produced by the bacteria can initiate the clotting pathways of the serum clotting components.Tommy had an upper respiratory infection (URL) and an earache (otitis media, O.M. ) previous to his bout with DIC; bacteria from his URL or otitis media infection probably gained entrance to his bloodstream through his epithelial tissues, invading the submucosa until they encountered blood capillaries. Once in the blood (septicemia= bacteria in blood), the bacteria stimulated the clotting system.