Factor V deficiency
Factor V deficiency is a condition that is passed down through families which affects the ability of the blood to clot.
Causes
Blood clotting is a complex process involving as many as 20 different proteins in blood plasma. These proteins are called blood coagulation factors.
Factor V deficiency is caused by a lack of the Factor V. When certain blood clotting factors are low or missing, your blood does not clot properly.
Factor V deficiency is rare. It may be caused by:
- A defective Factor V gene pass down through families (inherited)
- An antibody that interferes with normal Factor V function
You can may get an antibody that interferes with Factor V:
- After giving birth
- After being treated with a certain type of fibrin glue
- After surgery
- With autoimmune diseases and certain cancers
Sometimes the cause is unknown.
The disease is similar to hemophilia, except bleeding into joints is less common. In the inherited form of Factor V deficiency, a family history of a bleeding disorder is a risk factor.
Symptoms
- Bleeding into the skin
- Bleeding of the gums
- Excessive bruising
- Nosebleeds
- Prolonged or excessive loss of blood with surgery or trauma
- Umbilical stump bleeding
Exams and Tests
- Factor V assay
- Blood clotting tests, including partial thromboplastin time (PTT) and prothrombin time
- Bleeding time
Treatment
You will be given fresh blood plasma or fresh frozen plasma infusions during a bleeding episode or after surgery. These treatments will correct the deficiency temporarily.
Outlook (Prognosis)
The outlook is good with diagnosis and proper treatment.
Possible Complications
Severe bleeding (hemorrhage) could occur.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if you have an unexplained or prolonged loss of blood.
Alternative Names
Parahemophilia; Owren's disease
References
Ragni MV. Hemorrhagic disorders: coagulation factor deficiencies. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Cecil Medicine. 24th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2011:chap 167.
Update Date: 2/16/2012
Updated by: Todd Gersten, MD, Hematology/Oncology, Palm Beach Cancer Institute, West Palm Beach, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director and Director of Didactic Curriculum, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, Department of Family Medicine, UW Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington; David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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