Factor XIII Deficiency
An inherited bleeding disorder due to reduced levels and activity of factor XIII (FXIII) and characterised by hemorrhagic diathesis frequently associated with spontaneous abortions and defective wound healing. Factor XIII deficiency is one of the most rare coagulation factor deficiencies.
Epidemiology
Prevalence of homozygous forms is estimated at around 1/2,000,000. Both sexes are equally affected.
Clinical description
Congenital FXIII deficiency can manifest at any age, but diagnosis is often made during infancy. Umbilical stump bleeding manifests in up to 80% of patients. Other common signs include intracranial hemorrhage (25-30%), soft tissue bleeding, bruising, hemarthroses (20%), and recurrent spontaneous abortions. In most cases, hemorrhages are delayed (12-36hr) after trauma or surgery. Patients may have poor wound healing. Acquired forms of the disease have also been reported in association with hepatic failure, inflammatory bowel disease (see this term), and myeloid leukemia.
Etiology
Congenital FXIII deficiency is usually caused by mutations in the F13A1 gene (6p24.2-p23) encoding the catalytic A subunit, but mutations have also been found in the F13B gene (1q31-q32.1) encoding the B subunit. Transmission is autosomal recessive. The phenotype is less severe when the F13B gene is mutated.
Diagnostic methods
Diagnosis is based on quantitative FXIII activity measurement and antigen assays. Common clotting assays such as activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT) and Prothrombin Time (PT) are normal and cannot be used for the screening. The clot solubility test may also be used (clot is stable for more than 24 hours in case of FXIII deficiency). Molecular testing is available, but unnecessary for diagnosis.
Differential diagnosis
Differential diagnoses mainly include the other congenital coagulation factor deficiencies: fibrinogen, factors II, V, VII, X, XI, VIII, IX (see these terms).
Antenatal diagnosis
Antenatal diagnosis is possible if the causal mutations have previously been identified in the family.
The information is taken from the website Orpha.net
Congenital factor XIII deficiency
Prevalence
<1 / 1,000,000
Management and treatment
Factor XIII concentrates or fresh frozen plasma (when FXIII concentrates are not available) is usually used for the treatment of bleedings. Prophylactic therapy with FXIII concentrate should be indicated to prevent recurrent bleedings such as intracranial haemorrhage.
Prognosis
Intracranial haemorrhage can be life threatening, but prognosis is favourable if adequate treatment is provided.
The information is taken from the website Orpha.net
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