Rare factor deficiencies in children: A review of 23 cases from a single center

Abstract

Objective: The prevalence of rare factor deficiency (RFD) is one in 500.000-2.000.000 in the general population. Different symptoms may occur from mild or moderate bleeding to severe and life-threatening bleeding. This study aimed to evaluate children with RFD in a single Turkish center. Materials and Methods: The records of children with RFD (Factor I, V, VII, X, XIII deficiency) were evaluated retrospectively. Results: Twenty-three cases (70% female) were reviewed. The mean age of patients was 9.52 years at review, and mean follow-up was 66.3 months. The most common factor (F) deficiencies were FVII (35%) and FX (35%). Parental consanguinity was present in 65%. The most common symptoms were mucocutaneous bleeding and epistaxis. Regarding treatment, fresh frozen plasma (FFP) was given to two patients, FXIII concentrate was given to one patient, and prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC) was given to two patients. Prophylaxis was started in patients with recurrent bleeding. Of the 16 receiving prophylaxis, three received FFP, seven received recombinant coagulation factor VIIa, and six received PCC. Conclusion: Treatment was given to a fifth of patients while nearly three-quarters received prophylaxis. As parental consanguinity was present in most of these patients, obtaining a detailed family history may aid in diagnosis.