What is the Leiden factor?
Factor in Leiden is a genetic feature known to people pass to the formation of blood clots. People with this peculiarity have a variant of the V factor, the protein found in the blood and involved in the mechanisms of clotting that resist activated protein C, causing clots to evolve even after the body releases enzymes to stop the clotting of the mechanism. This feature can be identified in people during routine screening performed as part of the diagnostic process, or when they specifically require testing for concerns about the family history of this genetic variation. It is estimated that approximately three to eight percent of people with a European ancestor have at least one copy of a defective gene. Symptoms may vary depending on the exact change and how many copies of the gene have someone; For people with a factor in Leiden, the development of blood clots and complications such as pulmonary embolism, where the clot enters the airways, is a potential risk.
known as hypercoagulation disorder because it increases blood coagulation, the Leiden factor is identified by performing a screening test on the patient's blood, in most cases when this screening shows that blood is resistant to activated protein C. Combined with a family history of the gene and also with blood clots in the patient's personal history, this can be a strong diagnostic indicator.
Some patients live with this genetic variation throughout their lives without being aware of it, either because they carry a relatively mild mutation of the gene, or as a result of being lucky in the formation of blood clots. Other individuals may develop symptoms such as thrombosis of different points of their lives, usually in response to known risks such as flying and certain medicines.
people who fear hereditary blood disorders may decide to undergo genetic testing and PIt switches common genetic variations. Testing should be under the supervision of a genetic advisor, who can also provide advice and assistance when the test results return. People with a factor in Leiden can generally live a healthy life, have children and participate in normal activities, but there must be more vigilant for precipitation of problems and early warning signs of thrombosis and can be recommended to avoid certain risks or take further preventive measures.