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Factor X deficiency |
| Definition: |
| Factor X deficiency is an inherited disorder that causes abnormal blood clotting (coagulation), resulting from a deficiency of the plasma protein Factor X. |
| Alternative Names: |
| Stuart-Prower deficiency |
| Causes, incidence, and risk factors: |
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Normal blood coagulation is a complex process involving as many as 20 different plasma proteins, which are known as blood coagulation factors. A series of complex chemical reactions using these factors takes place very rapidly to form an insoluble protein called fibrin that stops bleeding. When certain coagulation factors are deficient or missing, the chain reaction does not take place normally. Factor X deficiency is caused by an inherited defect of the Factor X gene, and bleeding ranges from mild to severe. Women may have severe menstrual bleeding and bleeding after delivery. The incidence is 1 out of 500,000. Newborns may have prolonged bleeding after circumcision. |
| Symptoms: |
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| Signs and tests: |
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| Treatment: |
| The bleeding disorder is corrected by infusions of fresh frozen plasma or factor X concentrates during acute episodes or in preparation for surgery. |
| Support Groups: |
| The stress of illness can often be helped by joining a support group where members share common experiences and problems. See hemophilia - support group. |
| Expectations (prognosis): |
| The outcome is usually good with mild disease or with adequate therapy. |
| Complications: |
| Severe bleeding or hemorrhage can occur. Joint deformities may result from repeated bleeds in severe disease. |
| Calling your health care provider: |
| Call your health care provider, go to the emergency room, or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if you have an unexplained or severe loss of blood. |
| Prevention: |
| This is a rare inherited disorder. There is no known way to prevent it. |
Reviewed By: Rebecca Elstrom, M.D., Division of Hematology-Oncology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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