hyperkoagulabiliteettihäiriöt

Hypercoagulability, also known as thrombophilia, refers to a condition where the blood has an increased tendency to form clots. This can be due to genetic factors, acquired conditions, or a combination of both. Normally, the body has a delicate balance between clotting factors that promote clot formation and inhibitors that prevent it. In hypercoagulability, this balance is disrupted, leading to an overactive clotting system.

Genetic causes of hypercoagulability are inherited disorders affecting specific proteins involved in the clotting cascade. Common examples include Factor V Leiden mutation and the prothrombin gene mutation. These mutations make the clotting factors less susceptible to inactivation, thereby increasing the risk of clot formation. Acquired causes are more common and can arise from various medical conditions or lifestyle factors. These include certain cancers, inflammatory diseases like lupus, prolonged immobility, surgery, trauma, obesity, smoking, and the use of estrogen-containing medications like oral contraceptives.

The primary concern with hypercoagulability is the increased risk of thrombosis, which is the formation of blood clots within blood vessels. These clots can obstruct blood flow, leading to serious medical emergencies. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), where a clot forms in a deep vein usually in the legs, is a common manifestation. If a DVT clot breaks off and travels to the lungs, it can cause a pulmonary embolism (PE), a life-threatening condition. Hypercoagulability can also contribute to arterial clots, potentially causing strokes or heart attacks. Diagnosis typically involves blood tests to identify specific genetic mutations or acquired factors contributing to the prothrombotic state. Treatment strategies focus on preventing clot formation and managing the underlying causes, often involving anticoagulant medications.