Treatment & Blood Test For Factor V Leiden

Submitted on March 27, 2012

What is Factor V Leiden?

This is a mutation that increases the genetic risk factor for venous thrombosis. This affects several people and can also cause death. Thrombophilia is a congenital health condition, and the term includes several genetic problems that can increase the chances of blood clotting, which can lead to life-threatening and serious complications. How complicated the health condition is, depends largely on where the blood clot is located.

Sometimes clots caused because of Factor V Leiden disorder can cause deep vein thrombosis or superficial thrombophlebitis. If blood clots happen in blood vessels of major organs like the lungs, liver, or brain, then the condition can be life-threatening. Arterial clots can lead to a heart attack or stroke. If women have thrombophilia, then they should know that they might experience complications such as eclampsia, preeclampsia, and stillbirth.

Importance of Factor V Leiden Blood Test

Factor V Leiden test is essential for anyone with a family history of this condition, or who has thrombosis. Venous thrombosis is supposed to be multigenic, and it is believed that one-third of people with inherited thrombosis can have two or more genetic defects. Factot V Leiden mutation can be associated with intrauterine fetal demise and multiple pregnancy loss.

Prothombim 20210 and Factor V Leiden mutation blood tests are done along with other tests to find out the reason behind venous thromboembolism. This helps doctors to understand the cause for an initial thrombotic episode. This is especially important and helpful when the patient is less than 50 years old, or if the clot is in the pelvis, the brain, kidneys, liver, or veins of the eye.

The first screening is done with activated protein resistance testing or C (APC). If a person has resistance to APC, then he has a higher risk of thrombosis. Generally, those who have this resistance have Factor V Leiden mutation. A test is done to check if the person has the gene mutation, and determine the type of mutation, namely heterozygous or homozygous.

Treatment

Patients with thrombophilia are treated to reduce the chances of clotting or complications. There are several tests to find out the different types of thrombophilia. The best way to manage the health condition is to be able to access enough information. We suggest that you speak with several doctors and health specialists. Access the Internet for further information on this condition, and read up on the health problem.

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