A potent stimulator of platelet activation. Hemophilia A and von Willebrand's Disease are the most common congenital coagulation disorders and both involve different components of factor VIII macromolecule. VW resulting in impaired platelet adhesion. This disorder is inherited as a autosomal dominant and is characterized by bleeding from mucocutaneous surfaces. Symptoms vary tremendously with each patient, but excessive bleeding may occur with trauma or surgery.
Treatment is with cryoprecipitate replacement.
Hemophilia B and Hemophilia C occur less commonly. Acquired coagulation factor disorders may result from circulating anticoagulants or from vitamin K deficiency. Newborn and premature babies are at risk for hemorrhagic symptoms due to vitamin K deficiency particularly if the mother has been taking vitamin K antagonists. DIC occurs with activation of both the coagulation and fibrinolytic system resulting in thrombosis and hemorrhage. This may occur secondary to trauma, placental abruptio, sepsis, ARDS, and a variety of other disorders.