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Hypercoagulable states
Definition:

Hypercoagulable states are conditions that may lead to the abnormal development of blood clots.

These can include prolonged bedrest, dehydration, poor positioning (such as crossing the legs), sitting for long periods (such as in a plane or car), prolonged use of an intravenous catheter, and some types of surgeries and medical conditions (some cancers, liver or kidney disease).

Blood clots can develop in either arteries or veins.



Alternative Names:
Thromboembolic states

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

A tendency to form abnormal blood clots can be related to genetic problems. Rare examples of these include Protein C, Protein S and Anti-thrombin III defiiciencies.

Two other inherited conditions that are more common are Factor V Leiden and the Prothrombin mutation 20210A.

Other conditions that are not genetically related can also lead to the formation of abnormal blood clots. These can include cancer, recent surgery or trauma, obesity, and some medications.
Review Date: 5/5/2002
Reviewed By: William Matsui, M.D., Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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