Factor X Deficiency
Understanding Factor X Deficiency
Inherited factor X deficiency is a rare bleeding disorder. It varies in severity among those who are affected. Acquired factor X deficiency is more common and may be due to a deficiency in vitamin K, use of certain anticoagulant medications (e.g., warfarin/Coumadin®) or may be due to another illness such as severe liver disease or amyloidosis.
Symptoms of Factor X Deficiency
Symptoms of mild factor X deficiency include nosebleeds, easy bruising, bleeding under the skin, bleeding of the gums, blood in the urine (hematuria) and prolonged or excessive bleeding following surgery or trauma. Women who have a factor X deficiency can have heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding or excessive bleeding during childbirth. Symptoms for patients with severe factor X deficiency include excessive umbilical cord bleeding, prolonged bleeding after circumcision, joint bleeds, intramuscular bleeds, and a high risk of intracranial hemorrhage in the first weeks of life.
Diagnosing Factor X Deficiency
Diagnosis is confirmed by a blood test called a factor X assay. Family history is important in the diagnosis of hereditary factor X deficiency. Tests to measure the time it takes for blood to clot are typically done and include prothrombin time (PT) test, partial thromboplastin time (PTT) or activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) and thrombin time.
Treating Factor X Deficiency
Treatment available for factor X deficiency includes factor X concentrate, cryoprecipitate and fresh frozen plasma.
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