Definition:
Factor VIII deficiency is an uncommon bleeding disorder in which a fundamental clotting factor, known as gene Factor VIII, is lacking. The lack leads to Hemophilia A disorder, which results to an increased bleeding risk from injuries, particularly injuries on joints, brain, muscles, and digestive tract.
Diagnosis:
Diagnosis is based on medical history, physical examination, and tests.
Treatment:
Generally, scrapes and small cuts are managed with usual first-aid. Affected individuals can utilize non-blood product, known as desmopressin acetate, for treating small bleeds. Deep cuts, like those in the muscles and joints, need more complex management. Other treatments include replacing the clotting factor that's missing, as well as prophylaxis as the best therapy for a child with severe hemophilia.
Symptoms and Signs:
Symptoms for Factor VIII deficiency vary in severity and type. Those with mild hemophilia typically have bleeding problems only after there's a serious trauma, surgery, or injury. Individuals with moderate hemophilia have the tendency to have episodic bleeding after injuries; they may also have occasional bleeding without apparent cause. Severe hemophilia has bleeding after an injury, as well as frequent continual bleeding attacks, particularly the muscles and joints.
Causes:
The disorder is mainly an inherited deficiency of the Factor VIII gene. This gene partakes in the essential passageway of blood coagulation; defects in the gene cause the deficiency, which in turn leads to the symptoms of hemophilia.
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