Factor V deficiency

Definition

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

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:

After giving birth
After being treated with a certain type of fibrin glue
After surgery
With autoimmune diseases and certain cancers

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.

Symptoms

Excessive bleeding with menstrual periods and after childbirth often occurs. Other symptoms can include.

Bleeding into the skin
Bleeding of the gums
Excessive bruising
Nosebleeds
Prolonged or excessive loss of blood with surgery or trauma
Umbilical stump bleeding

Exams and Tests

Factor V assay
Blood clotting tests, including partial thromboplastin time (PTT) and prothrombin time
Bleeding time

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.

Outlook (Prognosis)

The outlook is good with diagnosis and proper treatment.

Possible Complications

Severe bleeding (hemorrhage) could occur.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

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.

Review Date: 2/16/2012
Reviewed By: 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.

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