Factor V deficiency
Factor V deficiency is a condition that is passed down through families which affects the ability of the blood to clot.
Alternative Names
Parahemophilia; Owren's disease
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
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:
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.
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.
Expectations (prognosis)
The outlook is good with diagnosis and proper treatment.
Complications
Severe bleeding (hemorrhage) could occur.
Calling your health care provider
Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if you have an unexplained or prolonged loss of blood.
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.
Updated: 2/16/2012
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.