Lightning Learning: Christmas Disease

Lightning Learning: Christmas Disease

“Haemophilia B is also known as Christmas Disease and is caused by a deficiency of clotting factor IX.”
— advice is based on local guidelines & procedures
 
Lightning Learning- Christmas Disease.png
 

What?

Haemophilia B also known as Christmas Disease is caused by a deficiency of clotting factor IX. It presents with easy bruising & recurrent bleeding into joints and deep muscles.

Also beware of other sources of bleeding, including after “minor injuries".

Treatment should include the replacement of the missing clotting factors – involve Haematology early!

Why?

Clinically it is indistinguishable from Haemophilia A (which is more common and accounts for approx 80% of cases of haemophilia). There may also be a family history.

Initial symptoms and examination findings may be nonspecific but should be taken seriously.

Intracranial haemorrhage remains a leading cause of death and this needs to be considered even after minor trauma.

Further Reading

#SimBlog: Methadone Ingestion

#SimBlog: Methadone Ingestion

#SimBlog: Preparing For The Worst

#SimBlog: Preparing For The Worst