Factor V Deficiency: Rare Bleeding Disorder Affects 1 in 1M
Factor V deficiency, a rare bleeding disorder affecting around 1 in 1 million people, occurs when the body lacks sufficient functional factor V protein, leading to ineffective blood clot formation and prolonged bleeding. This condition should not be confused with factor V Leiden mutation, which causes excessive clotting.
Factor V, or proaccelerin, plays a crucial role in the blood clotting process. It appears midway, accelerating the conversion of prothrombin into thrombin, essential for the formation of fibrin and stabilisation of blood clots. Symptoms of factor V deficiency include abnormal bleeding after surgery or injury, under the skin, from the nose or gums, easy bruising, and heavy menstrual periods.
The severity of factor V deficiency varies based on the amount of factor V available in the body. It can be inherited or acquired due to medications, underlying conditions, or autoimmune reactions. Diagnosis involves blood coagulation tests such as factor V assay, prothrombin time (PT), and activated partial prothrombin time (aPTT). Treatment typically involves infusions of fresh frozen plasma (FFP) and blood platelets, usually needed after surgery or a bleeding episode.
Factor V deficiency is a rare but serious bleeding disorder. It can cause prolonged bleeding after injury or surgery and may occur simultaneously with other bleeding disorders, exacerbating symptoms. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment, usually involving blood product infusions, are crucial for managing this condition.
