Hemostasis and Coagulation Disorders

Bleeding Disorders: Classification, Causes, and Diagnosis

Hemostasis is a crucial physiological process that prevents excessive bleeding and maintains vascular integrity. However, disorders of coagulation can lead to either pathological bleeding or thrombosis.

Classification of Bleeding Disorders

• Platelet Disorders: Conditions affecting platelet function or number, such as thrombocytopenia.
• Coagulation Factor Deficiencies: Deficiencies in clotting factors, including hemophilia A (Factor VIII deficiency) and hemophilia B (Factor IX deficiency).
• Vascular Disorders: Abnormalities in blood vessels leading to increased fragility, such as hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia.

Causes of Bleeding Disorders

Bleeding disorders can be inherited or acquired. Common causes include:

• Genetic mutations leading to clotting factor deficiencies.
• Vitamin K deficiency affecting factors II, VII, IX, and X.
• Liver disease impairing synthesis of coagulation factors.
• Medications such as anticoagulants disrupting clot formation.

Diagnosis of Bleeding Disorders

Accurate diagnosis involves clinical assessment and laboratory tests:

• Complete Blood Count (CBC) to evaluate platelet levels.
• Prothrombin Time (PT) and Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (APTT) to assess clotting pathways.
• Specific factor assays for hemophilia and other deficiencies.
• Genetic testing for hereditary conditions.

Conclusion

Early diagnosis and appropriate management of bleeding disorders are essential to prevent complications and improve patient outcomes.