Pharmacy Clinical Pearl of the Day: Factor V Leiden

Author(s):

Factor V Leiden can increase the chance of developing abnormal blood clots, most commonly in the legs or lungs.

Clinical Pearl of the Day: Factor V Leiden

Factor V Leiden is a mutation of one of the clotting factors in the blood.

Insight:

This mutation can increase the chance of developing abnormal blood clots, most commonly in the legs or lungs.
Most people with factor V Leiden never develop abnormal clots. But in those who do, these abnormal clots can lead to long-term health problems or become life-threatening.
Both men and women can have factor V Leiden. Women who carry the factor V Leiden mutation may have an increased tendency to develop blood clots during pregnancy or when taking the hormone estrogen.
Symptoms may include pain, swelling, redness, and warmth.
Risk factors may include having 2 faulty genes, immobility, taking estrogens, and in patients with blood types A, B, or AB.
Treatment may include a short course of blood thinners, leg wraps that inflate and deflate to keep blood moving in your legs, compression stockings, and going for walks soon after surgery.
These patients should avoid sports with too much contact, use a soft toothbrush, and be cautious with household tasks.

Sources:

Factor V Leiden - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic