Factor VII Deficiency: From Basics to Clinical Laboratory Diagnosis and Patient Management

Hereditary coagulation factor VII deficiency caused by novel compound heterozygous mutations c.572-1G>A and c.1037A>C in a Chinese pedigree

Hereditary coagulation factor VII (FVII) deficiency is a rare autosomal recessive bleeding disorder. The aims of this study were to identify and verify the pathogenic mutation sites in a family with hereditary coagulation FVII deficiency, and preliminarily explore the underlying mechanisms. We identified a novel combination of compound heterozygous mutations, c.572-1G>A and c.1037A>C in F7 gene, associated with FVII deficiency. The splice site mutation c.572-1G>A led to a truncation, resulting in the loss of the essential catalytic domain of the FVII protein. The c.1037A>C missense mutation has not been previously reported. Our study revealed that this mutation leads to steric hindrance between residues, causing significant changes in the energy and structure of the FVII protein, ultimately affecting its function. These changes disrupt the normal function of the FVII protein, accelerating the development of inherited FVII deficiency. Moreover, the mRNA expression of the F7 gene and the protein expression of the FVII antigen (FVII: Ag) were significantly lower in the proband, as well as in the proband's parents, compared to the healthy control (P<0.05). Our findings not only elucidate the genetic underpinning of FVII deficiency in the family studied but also contribute a new mutation to the known disease spectrum, potentially assisting in future diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.

The identification of a novel compound heterozygous mutation in hereditary human coagulation factor VII deficiency following a bamboo leaf green snake bite

Hereditary factor VII (FVII) deficiency is an uncommon autosomal recessive disorder associated with mutations in the F7 gene, and laboratory investigations usually reveal isolated prolongation in prothrombin time (PT)/international normalized ratio (INR). Venom-induced consumptive coagulopathy (VICC) is distinguished by the activation of the coagulation pathway, which is triggered by procoagulant toxins in snake venom. Diagnosing snakebites in patients with hereditary FVII deficiency presents a challenge because prolonged time PT/INR is considered the most valuable diagnostic method for VICC. Therefore, it is possible that certain patients may not promptly receive an accurate diagnosis of hereditary FVII deficiency. We present a pedigree featuring hereditary FVII deficiency, which was diagnosed through Sanger sequencing, following a bamboo leaf green snake bite.

Genetic Landscape of Factor VII Deficiency: Insights from a Comprehensive Analysis of Pathogenic Variants and Their Impact on Coagulation Activity

Congenital factor VII (FVII) deficiency is a rare genetic bleeding disorder characterized by deficient or reduced activity of coagulation FVII. It is caused by genetic variants in the F7 gene. We aimed to evaluate the rate of detection of pathogenic variants in the F7 gene in a large group of patients with FVII deficiency and investigate the correlations between the F7 genotype and FVII activity (FVII:C). Moreover, the influence of the common genetic variant rs6046: c.1238G>A; p.(Arg413Gln), designated as the M2 allele, on FVII:C was investigated. Genetic analysis of the F7 gene was performed on 704 index patients (IPs) using either direct Sanger- or next-generation sequencing. Genetic variants were detected in 390 IPs, yielding a variant detection rate (VDR) of 55%. Notably, the VDR exhibited a linear decline with increasing FVII:C levels. We identified 124 genetic variants, of which 48 were not previously reported. Overall, the frequency of the M2 allele was considerably higher in patients with mild deficiency (FVII:C > 20 IU/dl). Furthermore, IPs lacking an identified pathogenic variant exhibited a significantly higher prevalence of the M2 allele (69%) compared to IPs with a disease-causing variant (47%). These results strongly support the association of the M2 allele with decreased FVII:C levels. This study shows the utility of FVII:C as a predictive marker for identifying pathogenic variants in patients with FVII deficiency. The M2 allele contributes to the reduction of FVII:C levels, particularly in cases of mild deficiency.

Undiagnosed Factor VII Deficiency in Cardiac Surgery Complicated by Bleeding: A Case Report

Rare bleeding disorders in the perioperative period call for targeted resuscitation strategies. Factor VII deficiency, for instance, is often corrected with exogenous administration of recombinant factor VIIa. This activated clotting factor, initially designed for patients with hemophilia A or B with factor inhibitors, is gaining popularity as a salvage therapy for severe and persistent traumatic and surgical bleeding. This article describes the management of a cardiothoracic surgical patient with undiagnosed isolated factor VII deficiency who experienced significant postoperative bleeding which subsided after the administration of recombinant factor VIIa. In this case, EXTEM failed to detect a clotting factor deficiency.

Utility of ACMG classification to support interpretation of molecular genetic test results in patients with factor VII deficiency

Background

The American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) and the Association for Molecular Pathology (AMP) have introduced an internationally shared framework for variant classification in genetic disorders. FVII deficiency is a rare inherited autosomal recessive bleeding disorder with sparse data concerning ACMG classification.

Methods

To develop an approach which may improve the utility of molecular genetic test results, 129 patients with FVII deficiency were retrospectively assigned to six subgroups for exploratory analysis: F7 gene wildtype (group 1), ACMG 1 (benign variant) or ACMG 2 (likely benign variant), only (group 2), ACMG 3 (variant of uncertain significance) ± ACMG 1-2 heterozygous or not classified variant (group 3), ACMG 4 (likely pathogenic variant), or ACMG 5 (pathogenic variant) single heterozygous ± ACMG 1-3 single heterozygous (group 4), ACMG 4-5 homozygous or ≥2 ACMG 4-5 heterozygous or ≥1 ACMG 4-5 heterozygous plus either ACMG 1 c.1238G>A modifying variant homozygous or ≥2 ACMG 1-3 (group 5), FVII deficiency and another bleeding disorder (group 6).

Results

Eleven of 31 patients (35.5%) in group 5 had abnormal ISTH-BS (n = 7) and/or history of substitution with recombinant factor VIIa (n = 5) versus 4 of 80 patients (5.0%, n = 1 abnormal ISTH-BS, n = 3 substitution) in groups 1 (n = 2/22), 2 (n = 1/29), 3 (n = 0/9), and 4 (n = 1/20). Four of 18 patients (22.2%) with FVII deficiency and another bleeding disorder (group 6) had an abnormal ISTH-BS (n = 2) and/or history of substitution with recombinant factor VIIa (n = 3).

Conclusion

Patients with a homozygous ACMG 4-5 variant or with specific combinations of heterozygous ACMG 4-5 ± ACMG 1-3 variants exhibited a high-risk bleeding phenotype in contrast to the remaining patients without another bleeding disorder. This result may serve as a basis to develop a genotype/phenotype prediction model in future studies.

VHrare study: Prevalence, clinical features and management of severe rare bleeding disorders in a large cohort

INTRODUCTION

Rare bleeding disorders (RBD) constitute 5% of total hereditary bleeding disorders, although the number could be higher, due to the presence of undiagnosed asymptomatic patients. The objective of this study was to analyze the prevalence and characteristics of patients with severe RBDs in our area.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We analyzed the patients with RBD followed at a tertiary-level hospital between January 2014 and December 2021.

RESULTS

A total of 101 patients were analyzed, with a median age at diagnosis of 27.67 years (range 0-89), of which 52.47% were male. The most frequent RBD in our population was FVII deficiency. Regarding the diagnostic reason, the most frequent cause was a preoperative test and only 14.8% reported bleeding symptoms at the time of diagnosis. A genetic study was carried out in 63.36% of patients and the most frequent mutation type found was finding a missense mutation.

CONCLUSIONS

The distribution of RBDs in our centre is similar to the one reported in the literature. The majority of RBDs were diagnosed from a preoperative test and this allowed preventive treatment prior to invasive procedures to avoid bleeding complications. 83% of patients did not have a pathological bleeding phenotype according to ISTH-BAT.

Acquired Factor VII Deficiency Associated With Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Blast Crisis

Factor VII (FVII) is an important, vitamin K-dependent clotting factor. Acquired FVII deficiency is a rare entity that is associated with serious bleeding complications. We report a case of acquired FVII deficiency in a patient with recurrent chronic myeloid leukemia in blast crisis who developed bilateral retinal hemorrhages. The coagulopathy was corrected with the initiation of chemotherapy and subsequent reduction in peripheral blast count.

Investigation of a common canine factor VII deficiency variant in dogs with unexplained bleeding on autopsy

The factor VII (FVII) protein is an integral component of the extrinsic coagulation pathway. Deleterious variants in the gene encoding this protein can result in factor VII deficiency (FVIID), a bleeding disorder characterized by abnormal (slowed) clotting with a wide range of severity, from asymptomatic to life-threatening. In canids, a single FVIID-associated variant, first described in Beagles, has been observed in 24 breeds and mixed-breed dogs. Because this variant is present in breeds of diverse backgrounds, we hypothesized that it could be a contributing factor to unexplained bleeding observed in some canine autopsy cases. DNA was extracted from paraffin-embedded tissue samples from 67 anticoagulant-negative autopsy cases with unexplained etiology for gross lesions of hemorrhage. Each dog was genotyped for the c.407G>A (F71) variant. Experimental controls included 3 known heterozygotes and 2 known homozygotes for the F71 variant, 2 normal dogs with known homozygous wild-type genotypes (F7WF7W), and 5 dogs with bleeding at autopsy that tested positive for anticoagulant rodenticide and were genotyped as F7WF7W. All 67 cases tested homozygous for the wild-type allele, indicating that the common FVIID variant was not responsible for the observed unexplained bleeding. Our work demonstrates the usefulness of retrospective studies utilizing veterinary diagnostic laboratory databases and tissue archives for genetic studies. In the case of FVIID, our results suggest that a singular molecular test for the F71 variant is not a high-yield addition to postmortem screening in these scenarios.

Clinical phenotype and F7 gene genotype in 40 Tunisian patients with congenital factor VII deficiency

Congenital factor VII (FVII) deficiency is an autosomal recessive bleeding disorder characterized by a weak phenotypic and genotypic correlation. This study aimed to determine the genetic alterations of 40 Tunisian patients and to evaluate their relationships with the collected clinical and biological data. Forty FVII-deficient Tunisian patients have been included in this study. First, diagnosis of the FVII deficiency was made on the basis of FVII coagulant activity (FVII:c) levels performed using the prothrombin time assay. Then, clinical and anamnesis data were set up and filed out from the regional registry of bleeding disorders and the medical file of each patient. Finally, genetic alterations were determined by direct sequencing of the coding regions, intron/exons boundaries of the F7 gene. Clinical heterogeneity was noticed, and the direct sequencing allowed the identification of 13 F7 gene mutations of which one was a novel mutation. The clinical manifestations are variably associated with FVII activity FVII:c levels. Lack of relations between severity of clinical manifestations and genotypes was observed; however, a relationship between the nonpathogeneous mutations and clinical phenotypes was noticed. A wide phenotypic inter-individual variability was detected, which suggests the presence of other extra-genetic components influencing the expressivity of the deficiency.

Case of concurrent factor VII and factor XI deficiencies manifesting as spontaneous lower extremity compartment syndrome

Factor VII and XI deficiencies are rare bleeding disorders typically associated with mild or provoked bleeding. This case report describes a patient with factor VII and XI deficiencies with an unprovoked episode of lower extremity hematoma causing compartment syndrome requiring multiple surgeries, extensive transfusion of blood products, and ultimately amputation.

Novel heterozygous F7 gene mutation (c. C1286T) associated with congenital factor VII deficiency: A case report and literature review

Background

Congenital factor VII (FVII) deficiency is a rare inherited autosomal recessive disorder characterized by prolongation of prothrombin time and low FVII coagulation activity, which may increase the risk of bleeding.

Case presentation

A 66‐year‐old man with acute postoperative intracranial hemorrhage was transferred to our hospital owing to coagulation dysfunction. In coagulation tests, the FVII coagulation activity was less than 2%. Genetic analysis of the gene encoding FVII identified compound heterozygous mutations: c. 681+1 G>T and c. C1286T (p. Ala429Val).

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first report describing the c. C1286T (p. Ala429Val) mutation in the FVII‐encoding gene. We suggest that these mutations resulted in the reduced FVII activity and abnormal clotting in our patient after brain surgery.

Results of multicenter registry for patients with inherited factor VII deficiency in Turkey

INTRODUCTION

Inherited factor VII (FVII) deficiency (FVIID) is the most common of inherited rare bleeding disorders. Other determinants of clinical severity apart from FVII level (FVIIL) include genetic and environmental factors. We aimed to identify the cut-off FVIILs for general and severe bleedings in patients with FVIID by using an online national registry system including clinical, laboratory, and demographic characteristics of patients.

METHODS

Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data of patients with FVIID extracted from the national database, constituted by the Turkish Society of Hematology, were examined. Bleeding phenotypes, general characteristics, and laboratory features were assessed in terms of FVIILs. Bleeding rates and prophylaxis during special procedures/interventions were also recorded.

RESULTS

Data from 197 patients showed that 46.2% of patients had FVIIL< 10%. Most bleeds were of mucosal origin (67.7%), and severe bleeds tended to occur in younger patients (median age: 15 (IQR:6-29)). Cut-off FVIILs for all and severe bleeds were 16.5% and 7.5%, respectively. The major reason for long-term prophylaxis was observed as central nervous system bleeding (80%).

CONCLUSION

Our data are consistent with most of the published literature in terms of cut-off FVIIL for bleeding, as well as reasons for prophylaxis, showing both an increased severity of bleeding and younger age at diagnosis with decreasing FVIIL. However, in order to offer a classification similar to that in Hemophilia A or B, data of a larger cohort with information about environmental and genetic factors are required.

A Rare Case of Factor VII Inhibitor in a Patient Presenting with Primary Splenic Marginal Zone Lymphoma

BACKGROUND Here, we report the novel presentation of a factor VII inhibitor in association with a new diagnosis of splenic marginal zone lymphoma in a previously healthy 38-year-old woman. There are only 4 reported cases of factor VII inhibitors, none of which are secondary to a splenic marginal zone lymphoma. CASE REPORT Our patient, a 38-year-old woman, presented reporting increased abdominal swelling and early satiety. She was found to have pancytopenia, an elevated international normalized ratio (INR), normal partial thromboplastin time (PTT), and massive splenomegaly. Further investigation revealed a morphology and immunophenotype most consistent with splenic marginal zone lymphoma. A mixing study was unable to bring the INR into normal range after 60 min, confirming a factor VII inhibition. Therefore, the final diagnosis was primary splenic marginal zone lymphoma and secondary factor VII inhibitors. Owing to the elevated INR, both chemotherapy and splenectomy were avoided and we began a 4-week course of weekly rituximab infusions. After a second course of 4 treatments, there was a resolution of both the coagulopathy and the splenomegaly. At this point, the splenectomy was safely performed. Maintenance rituximab continued for 2 years. Our patient has now been in remission 12 years. CONCLUSIONS We successfully treated a rare factor VII inhibitor and its underlying splenic marginal zone lymphoma with rituximab immunotherapy. A complete response was documented by splenectomy. The patient's 12-year remission of both the lymphoma and the inhibitor helps to support the causative relationship between the lymphoma and the factor VII inhibitor.

Diagnosis and treatment discussion of congenital factor VII deficiency in pregnancy: A case report

BACKGROUND

Congenital factor VII deficiency (FVIID) is a rare autosomal recessive genetic disorder. The clinical manifestations of this deficiency vary greatly. Predicting the risk of bleeding during and after childbirth of pregnant women with congenital FVIID is difficult. Recombinant factor VIIa is the most common replacement therapy for FVIID. However, no unified diagnosis and treatment plan for pregnant women with congenital FVIID has been established.

CASE SUMMARY

We report the clinical history of a pregnant woman who was considered to have congenital FVIID. Recombinant factor VIIa was prophylactically administered to the pregnant woman at the time of cervical fully opening. She successfully delivered a live infant without any complications, such as postpartum hemorrhage, neonatal abnormalities, and so on.

CONCLUSION

Prophylaxis of recombinant factor VIIa during delivery can effectively reduce the incidence of postpartum hemorrhage among pregnant women with congenital FVIID associated with a high risk of bleeding.

Preventing Surgical and Postpartum Hemorrhage in an Active Duty Patient With an Undiagnosed Coagulopathy at a Military Treatment Facility

Factor VII (FVII) deficiency is a hereditary bleeding disorder that significantly increases the risk of hemorrhage during the intrapartum and postpartum periods as well as during surgery. Management often requires careful pre- and post-operative planning, a multi-disciplinary approach, and management at a tertiary center. Most cases in the literature utilized recombinant FVII for treatment. We present a case of a young active duty female who had an undiagnosed FVII deficiency that became apparent during her expedited delivery for fetal distress. Our patient was admitted for delivery while undergoing a work up for an abnormal coagulation panel. Given high suspicion for FVII deficiency, anticipated hemorrhage, and need for cesarean delivery, she was treated with blood products containing FVII. Two days after delivery her diagnosis was confirmed. Available literature discusses the management of known FVII deficiency in pregnancy; however, to the best of our knowledge, there are no cases of an unknown bleeding diathesis incidentally identified just before delivery and later diagnosed as FVII deficiency. This case highlights the appropriate management of an unknown coagulopathy, the significant challenges associated, and the incorporation of a multi-disciplinary team critical to reducing significant maternal morbidity.

Identification of two novel mutations in three children with congenital factor VII deficiency

Congenital factor VII deficiency (FVIID) is a rare F7 gene mutation causing bleeding disorder inherited in an autosomal recessive manner. In this study, we aimed to identify genetic defects and analyze their relationships with phenotype in three Chinese FVIID patients. The diagnosis of FVIID was made based on FVII coagulant activity (FVII:C) levels assessed through prothrombin time assay. Direct sequencing and protein modeling were performed to detect genetic mutations and the resulting protein expression. Patient 1, a 2-year-old girl, presented with mild bleeding and was found to have a FVII:C of 0.2% and a compound heterozygous F7 Cys389Gly/Cys115Arg mutation. Patient 2, a 7-year-old boy, consulted for moderate bleeding and was found to have a FVII:C of 0.8% and a compound heterozygous F7 Thr241Asn/Pro324Leu mutation. Patient 3, a 5-year-old boy who developed a mild bleeding after trauma was found to have a FVII:C of 1.8% and a compound heterozygous F7 Thr241Asn/ IVS5-2A>G mutation. We hereby report three congenital FVIID patients with FVII:C less than 2% and their respective F7 mutations, two of which (F7 Cys115Arg, Pro324Leu) are novel. The molecular model analysis of the two novel mutations F7 Cys115Arg and Pro324Leu respectively indicated impairment of the proper folding of epidermal growth factor 1 domain situated on F7 gene and impairment of the procoagulant function of FVII both leading to the congenital deficiency of FVII.

Color vision disturbances secondary to oral tranexamic acid

Tranexamic acid (TXA) is an antifibrinolytic commonly used to reduce blood loss due to surgical procedures, heavy menstruation, trauma, bleeding disorders, among other uses. Possible adverse reactions associated with TXA include abdominal pain, headache, fatigue, cerebral thrombosis, dizziness, retinal artery occlusion, chromatopsia, and more. We present a case of acute color vision disturbance developed soon after initiation of oral TXA for epistaxis prophylaxis in the setting of factor VII deficiency. To our knowledge we report the only case of color vision disturbance in a pediatric patient and the only case after receiving oral TXA. Soon after discontinuing oral TXA the patient's altered perception of color vision resolved. The patient was subsequently discharged home with a prescription for an alternative antifibrinolytic (aminocaproic acid) and follow-up with neuro-ophthalmology.

Successful Splenectomy Management in a Patient With Moderate Factor VII Deficiency and Concomitant Severe Hereditary Spherocytosis

By the advent of the effective therapies for many coagulation diseases and hereditary spherocytosis (HS), patient's survival has been improved significantly; however, if patients are diagnosed late or left untreated, both diseases could ominously be life threatening. Concurrent occurring of factor VII (FVII) deficiency and HS is extremely rare and there is no literature report that explain this condition, thus far. In this study, we confronted a 9-year-old female patient diagnosed with HS and enlarged spleen as a result of this blood disorder. Given to her sever signs and symptoms of splenomegaly, she was candidate for emergent splenectomy. However, assessment of coagulation tests revealed a prolonged prothrombin time, suggesting the moderate FVII deficiency. With a multidisciplinary consultation, we decided to performed total splenectomy with prophylaxis administration of totally 6 doses of active recombinant FVII, initiated 1 hour before surgery and followed until 30 hours postoperation. As a result of cautious undertaken in Mofid Children's Hospital, the patient did not experience any hemostatic defect. Patient is now 14-year-old, generally well-being under regular surveillance of FVII deficiency.

Retinal hemorrhage and bleeding disorders in children: A review

BACKGROUND

Retinal hemorrhages (RH) are a common manifestation of abusive head trauma (AHT) resulting from acceleration-deceleration injury with or without blunt impact. Evaluation of a child with RH requires careful consideration of these differential diagnoses. The extent to which coagulopathy alone can cause RH would be useful to understand as coagulopathy may accompany AHT.

OBJECTIVE

In this systematic review, we sought to identify whether coagulopathies have been reported with RH similar to those of AHT.

METHODS

We performed a literature search for ocular manifestations of bleeding disorders in children less than 18 years old. We included clotting factor deficiencies, vitamin K deficiency, platelet function abnormalities, thrombocytopenia, disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), and trauma induced coagulopathy (TIC). We included only pediatric reports of intraocular bleeding or documented eye examinations that indicated no hemorrhages. We then re-examined cases for ocular and systemic findings that could potentially mimic abuse.

RESULTS

Our initial search yielded 816 results. Sixty-one articles met our inclusion criteria. Of these, there were 32 children within the AHT age range (less than 5 years old) who had RH and concomitant coagulopathy. Only 5 cases might potentially be confused for abuse. Of these, no classic characteristics of RH from abuse such as retinoschisis or retinal folds were found. Systemic features were inconsistent with AHT.

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of coagulopathy alone does not rule out the possibility that the child has been abused. Coagulopathy alone has not been reported as an etiology of RH that are consistent with AHT, especially when other findings are present.

Biochemical, molecular and clinical aspects of coagulation factor VII and its role in hemostasis and thrombosis

Activated factor VII (FVIIa), the first protease of clotting, expresses its physiological procoagulant potential only after complexing with tissue factor (TF) exposed to blood. Deep knowledge of the FVIIa-TF complex and F7 gene helps to understand the Janus-faced clinical findings associated to low or elevated FVII activity (FVIIc). Congenital FVII deficiency, the most frequent among the recessively inherited bleeding disorders, is caused by heterogeneous mutations in the F7 gene. Complete FVII deficiency causes perinatal lethality. A wide range of bleeding symptoms, from life-threatening intracranial hemorrhage to mild mucosal bleeding, is observed in patients with apparently modest differences in FVIIc levels. Though clinically relevant FVIIc threshold levels are still uncertain, effective management, including prophylaxis, has been devised, substantially improving the quality of life of patients. The exposure of TF in diseased arteries fostered investigation on the role of FVII in cardiovascular disease. FVIIc levels were found to be predictors of cardiovascular death and to be markedly associated to F7 gene variation. These genotype-phenotype relationships are among the most extensively investigated in humans. Genome-wide analyses extended association to numerous loci that, together with F7, explain >50% of FVII level plasma variance. However, the ability of F7 variation to predict thrombosis was not consistently evidenced in the numerous population studies. Main aims of this review are to highlight i) the biological and clinical information that distinguishes FVII deficiency from the other clotting disorders and ii) the impact exerted by genetically predicted FVII level variation on bleeding as well as on the thrombotic states.

Case Report: Factor VII Deficiency Presented With Cephalohematoma After Birth

Introduction: Factor VII deficiency is a rare inherited autosomal recessive bleeding disorder with a global prevalence of 1/500,000. Most cases remain asymptomatic, and cases with severe clinical presentation are rarely reported. Case Presentation: A newborn male with no relevant maternal antenatal history, delivered via vacuum-assisted cesarean section, presented with a large cephalohematoma after delivery. Poor appetite, pale appearance, and bulging fontanelles were observed 2 days later, progressing to hypovolemic shock. Further imaging examination revealed a large intracranial hemorrhage. Serial laboratory examination revealed remarkable coagulopathy with prolonged prothrombin time and factor VII deficiency (<1%, severe type). The patient was genetically confirmed to have the FVII:c 681+1 G>T homozygous mutation. Brain hemorrhage was resolved with high-dose factor VII replacement therapy with recombinant activated factor VII. However, repeated hemothorax and intracranial hemorrhage were detected. Therefore, the patient was under regular factor VII supplementation with a rehabilitation program for cerebral palsy. Conclusions: A case of factor VII deficiency with large cephalohematoma and intracranial hemorrhage after birth is described herein, which was treated with high-dose replacement therapy. Variants of the FVII:c 681+1 G>T (IVS6+1G>T) homozygous genotype may present with a severe phenotype at the neonatal stage. We aim to share a unique neonatal presentation with a certain genotype and treatment experience with initial replacement therapy, followed by regular prophylactic dosage.

Aortic valve and coronary artery bypass surgery in a patient with factor VII deficiency

Congenital factor VII (FVII) deficiency is a rare bleeding disorder (RBD) with phenotypes ranging from asymptomatic state to life threatening bleeding episodes. There is no established recommendation for the perioperative management of patients scheduled for cardiac surgery. We have described the perioperative management of a patient with FVII deficiency treated for aortic valve stenosis, coronary artery disease, and atrial fibrillation. Balancing perioperative bleeding risk and risks of thrombotic events thereafter in such patients is difficult and requires a multidisciplinary approach.

Intracranial bleeding following soccer-related head trauma in a young student with occult factor VII deficiency

It is important to obtain coagulation tests to assess bleeding risk in trauma patients undergoing emergency surgery when a bleeding disorder may be obscured. Identifying specific clotting factor defects is critical in successful patient management.

Successful Desensitization Protocol in an Infant Following Anaphylaxis Secondary to Recombinant Factor VIIa

Background: Recombinant factor VIIa (rFVIIa) is a highly purified recombinant protein. It is approved for the treatment and prevention of bleeding episodes associated with congenital factor VII deficiency, congenital hemophilia with inhibitors, and Glanzmann's thrombasthenia. The most commonly reported adverse events are thrombolytic in nature. In this report, we present a successful desensitization protocol administered to an infant with a history of anaphylaxis to rFVIIa. Case: A male infant with a history of gingival bleeding at the age of 6 months was diagnosed with factor VII deficiency with a factor VII level of 1%. His sister also had diagnosis of factor VII deficiency. Our patient was hospitalized at 10 months of age with generalized petechiae and bloody stools. Twenty minutes after administration of rFVIIa, he developed anaphylaxis that responded to epinephrine and supportive care. Subsequently he was evaluated at the allergy clinic, where a skin prick test with rFVIIa was negative. However, the intradermal skin test, applied with 1/1,000 (1 μg/1 mL, 0.1 mL) dilution of rFVIIa, showed induration of 8 mm (positive reaction). Because there is no alternative treatment for factor VII deficiency, we developed a successful 13-step desensitization protocol with rFVIIa (NovoSeven^®). Desensitization was performed an additional 2 times using the same protocol, one of which was for a head injury and the other for a swollen knee since the period between the doses was ∼3 months. Conclusion: Allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis can occur without prior exposure. This can be due to the high molecular weight and structural property of the biological agent. In this report, we present an effective desensitization protocol for an infant with a history of anaphylaxis to rFVIIa. Desensitization protocols in this age group should be carried out in a medical facility and with specialized staff and equipment prepared to care for anaphylaxis.

[Congenital factor Ⅶ deficiency: a retrospective analysis of 43 cases]

Objective: To explore the pathogenesis, clinical characteristics, laboratory findings, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of congenital factor Ⅶ (FⅦ) deficiency. Methods: Clinical data of 43 patients with congenital FⅦ deficiency diagnosed from April 1999 to September 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. Results: There were 27 females and 16 males. Median age was 16 (1-70) years. Family history was found in 6 cases. There were 29 (67.4%) cases with bleeding symptoms, most common of which were mucocutaneous bleeding (13 cases, 30.2%) , oral bleeding (13 cases, 30.2%) , and epistaxis (9 cases, 20.9%) . Menorrhagia occurred in 11 cases (47.6% of female patients who were in fertile age) . Laboratory findings were characterized by significantly prolonged prothrombin time (PT) , normal partial thromboplastin time (APTT) , and decreased FⅦ activity (FⅦ∶C) . Ten cases received gene mutation analysis and 3 new mutations were found. Fourteen cases (32.6%) were treated with prothrombin complex concentrates (PCC) , 12 (27.9%) with fresh frozen plasma (FFP) , and 3 (7.0%) with human recombinant activated FⅦ (rFⅦa) . Twenty cases (46.5%) with no or mild bleeding symptoms did not receive any replacement therapy. Previous bleeding symptoms recurred in 5 patients (11.6%) , 8 females still had heavy menstrual bleeding, and 9 patients (20.9%) were lost to follow-up. Conclusion: Most patients with congenital FⅦ deficiency have mild or no bleeding symptoms, but have a tendency to excessive bleeding after surgery or trauma. There is no significant correlation between FⅦ∶C and severity of bleeding symptoms. Prophylaxis should be applied in patients with severe bleeding symptoms and rFⅦa is the first choice. Gene mutation test is significant for screening, diagnosis, and prognosis prediction of the disease.

Clinical problems and surgical interventions in inherited factor VII deficiency

Aim:

Factor VII deficiency is one of the hereditary coagulation disorders that has autosomal reccessive inheritance and is observed relatively frequently (1/500 000). It is clinically heterogeneous, and may be asymptomatic or lead to life-threatening bleeding. Thus, there is no correlation between FVII activity and clinical findings. Plasma-derived and recombinant FVII concentrates are currently used for treatment. In countries where access to these products is lacking, fresh frozen plasma and prothrombin complex concentrates are also used, though they contain low amounts of factor FVII. In this study, we present the clinical properties, treatments, and surgical interventions used in patients followed up in our clinic with a diagnosis of factor FVII deficiency.

Material and Methods:

Patients who were diagnosed as FVII deficiency in Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology between July 1997 and July 2018, were included in the study. The patients’ demographic characteristics, symptoms at presentation, PT, aPTT, and FVII values, types of bleeding, and treatments and surgical interventions used, were recorded. The bleedings observed in the patients were classified by severity as asymptomatic, minor, and major.

Results:

A total of 18 patients (7 girls and 11 boys) with a mean age of 9.64±9.63 years were included in the study. The mean follow-up time was found as 78.06±54.4 months. When the bleedings were classified clinically, no bleeding was observed in eight patients (44.4%). The factor FVII level was found as <10% in three of these eight asymptomatic patients and above 20% in the others. Minor bleeding was observed in nine patients (50%) and major bleeding was observed in one patient. When the patients were classified as asymptomatic and symptomatic, there was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of FVII level (p=0.57). A total of 21 surgical interventions were performed in 14 (78%) of 18 patients who were being followed up.

Conclusion:

FVII deficiency has a very wide spectrum both clinically and in terms of approach to surgical interventions. Therefore, patients with factor FVII deficiency should be followed up and treated by comprehensive care centers with close collaboration of multiple disciplines.

"Noninfective Endocarditis": A Case Report of Hereditary Coagulation Disorders in a 28-Year-Old Male

We report a case of a young male who presented with acute limb ischemia after sport. With no prior history of disease, a non-infective endocarditis of the native aortic valve was diagnosed. After surgical valve replacement, the patient suffered from acute myocardial ischemia under phenprocoumon therapy. Anti-coagulant monitoring was subsequently changed to Factor II analysis after a rare Factor VII deficiency and prothrombin mutation (G20210A) was diagnosed.

A Novel Presentation of Metaphyseal Chondrodysplasia, Schmid Type with Factor VII Deficiency

Metaphyseal chondrodysplasia, Schmid type (MDSC) is a rare inherited autosomal disorder with characteristic skeletal deformities striking on radiological imaging, which includes metaphyseal cupping and fraying. Physical examination reveals short stature in early childhood, frontoparietal bossing, rachitic rosary, genu varum and valgum, and coxa vara usually. We believe that the constellation of clinical and radiographic findings of MDSC might look similar to vitamin D resistant rickets; hence, genetic analysis is needed to overcome diagnostic challenges faced by physicians to avoid unnecessary vitamin D supplementation in individuals. We report the first case of MDSC with a coexisting factor VII deficiency in an eight-year-old boy.  

Evaluation of the Antihemostatic and Antithrombotic Effects of Lowering Coagulation Factor VII Levels in a Non-human Primate

Introduction

Tissue factor (TF) and factor (F) VII, components of the extrinsic pathway of blood coagulation, are essential for hemostatic plug formation in response to injury; less clear are their roles in propagating thrombosis, as observational data in humans with congenital FVII deficiency suggests persistent thrombotic and bleeding risk even at significantly decreased FVII levels. We aimed to define the contribution of FVII to thrombus formation and hemostasis using a non-human primate model.

Methods

We treated baboons with a FVII antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) and measured platelet and fibrin deposition inside and distal to collagen- or TF-coated vascular grafts. We assessed hemostasis by measuring bleeding time (BT) and prothrombin time (PT). Enoxaparin and vehicle treatments served as controls.

Results

FVII-ASO treatment reduced FVII levels by 95% and significantly increased both the PT and BT. Lowering FVII levels did not decrease platelet deposition in collagen- or TF-coated grafts, in thrombi distal to the grafts, or fibrin content of either collagen- and TF-coated grafts. Lowering FVII levels were associated with a modest 25% reduction in platelet deposition at 60 min in the distal thrombus tail of TF-coated grafts only.

Conclusions

FVII inhibition by way of ASO is feasible yet significantly impairs hemostasis while only exhibiting antithrombotic effects when thrombosis is initiated by vessel wall surface-associated TF exposure.

Plummer-Vinson Syndrome With Concomitant Factor VII Deficiency

Background: Plummer-Vinson syndrome (PVS), a rare disorder characterized by dysphagia, iron deficiency anemia, and esophageal webs, has principally been described in middle-aged women. This disorder is uncommon in the 21^st century because of the abundance of iron-fortified foods. Clotting factor deficiencies are also rare. Factor VII deficiency is a bleeding disorder characterized by the absence of a critical protein in the coagulation cascade. Case Report: We present a case of PVS associated with factor VII deficiency in a 26-year-old African American female. The patient had a history of anemia that was repeatedly attributed to menstrual bleeding and dysphagia for 10 years. She presented with symptomatic anemia requiring transfusion. She reported a history of food getting stuck in her chest, and workup revealed esophageal webs with no evidence of overt luminal gastrointestinal bleeding. Coagulation laboratory tests revealed the incidental finding of a borderline increased prothrombin time. Hematologic studies confirmed the presence of factor VII deficiency. Conclusion: To our knowledge, no case has been published about a patient diagnosed with PVS and concomitant factor VII deficiency. Our case illustrates several learning points: (1) PVS is an uncommon disorder that may still be diagnosed in a developed country in the 21^st century; (2) PVS requires close follow-up and esophageal surveillance because of the increased risk of esophageal cancer; (3) factor VII exhibits a high degree of phenotypic variability; (4) phenotype in factor VII deficiency does not always correlate with factor VII activity, although life-threatening spontaneous bleeding is not expected with levels >2%.

The use of prophylaxis in the treatment of rare bleeding disorders

Rare bleeding disorders (RBDs) are a heterogeneous group of coagulation factor deficiencies that include fibrinogen, prothrombin, α₂-antiplasmin, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1, and factors II, V, V/VIII, VII, X, XI and XIII. The incidence varies based upon the disorder and typically ranges from 1 in 500,000 to 1 per million population. Symptoms vary with the disorder and residual level of the clotting factor, and can range from relatively minor such as epistaxis, to life threatening, such as intracranial hemorrhage. Rapid treatment of bleeding episodes in individuals with severe bleeding phenotypes is essential to preserve life or limb and to prevent long-term sequelae; therapeutic options depend on the deficiency and range from plasma-derived (eg, fresh frozen plasma, prothrombin complex concentrates, factor X concentrate) to highly purified and recombinant single factor concentrates. The rarity of these disorders limits the feasibility of conventional prospective clinical trials; instead, clinicians rely upon registries, published case reports/series and experience to guide treatment. In some disorders, long-term prophylactic therapy is administered in response to the bleeding phenotype in an individual patient or based on the known natural history and severity of the deficiency. Intermittent prophylaxis, surrounding surgery, pregnancy, labor, and menstruation may be required to prevent or control excessive bleeding. This review summarizes therapeutic options, guidelines, recommendations and observations from the published literature for long-term, surgical, gynecological, and obstetric prophylaxis in deficiencies of fibrinogen; prothrombin; factors II, V, V/VIII, VII, X, XI and XIII; combined vitamin-K dependent factors; α2-antiplasmin; and plasminogen activator inhibitor 1. Platelet disorders including Glanzmann's thrombasthenia and Bernard-Soulier syndrome are also addressed.

Recurrent pre-retinal haemorrhages associated with coagulation factor VII deficiency

The case concerns a 20 year-old woman with a sudden visual loss in her left eye. In the fundus examination, a focal pre-retinal haemorrhage was observed in the superior temporal vascular branch with accompanying vitreous haemorrhage. There was a favourable spontaneous outcome. Eighteen months later, she presented with a new visual loss in the same eye, showing a sub-hyaloid pre-macular haemorrhage that was satisfactorily drained by hyaloidotomy using a Nd-YAG laser. The patient had also presented with an upper digestive tract haemorrhage and menorrhagia. A haemostasis study was performed that showed a coagulation factor VII deficiency. This is a very uncommon disorder that has not been previously described in association with the appearance of pre-retinal haemorrhages.

Inhibitor development in patients with congenital factor VII deficiency, a study on 50 Iranian patients

: Congenital factor VII (FVII) deficiency is a rare bleeding disorder with an estimated prevalence of 1 per 500 000 in the general population. On-demand replacement therapy is the main therapeutic choice in patients with congenital FVII deficiency. Inhibitor formation against exogenous FVII is very rare and can cause challenges in the management of the disorder. The present study was conducted to assess the prevalence of FVII inhibitor in 50 patients with congenital FVII deficiency under on-demand or prophylaxis treatment by recombinant activated FVII. All patients with confirmed congenital FVII deficiency were assessed for inhibitor development in regular intervals. Inhibitor titer was determined by a modified Nijmegen-Bethesda assay. The study results were analyzed by SPSS software. Among all cases, two patients (4%) developed an FVII inhibitor. Case 1 was a 14-year-old boy with severe FVII deficiency (FVII activity <1%) with regular prophylaxis. The patient was a high-responder with high-titer FVII inhibitor (170 Bethesda Unit). This patient, who had a history of intracranial hemorrhage, had undergone brain surgery three times. The second patient was a 70-years old man with on-demand therapy that also developed a high-titer inhibitor (10 Bethesda Unit). This patient had experienced easy bruising and endured a few surgeries for his brain tumor and, finally, succumbed to the disease. Although the inhibitor formation is a rare phenomenon, it may result in a significant challenge to manage the affected patients.

A new perspective on perioperative coagulation management in a patient with congenital factor VII deficiency: A case report

RATIONALE

Congenital factor VII (FVII) deficiency is a rare coagulopathy. There are little clinical data for congenital FVII deficiency and no evidence-based medicine guidelines for treatment.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 48-year-old woman with gallbladder stones suffered from intermittent abdominal pain for 2 months that was accompanied by an abnormally prolonged prothrombin time.

DIAGNOSES

The woman was diagnosed as having cholecystolithiasis with cholecystitis and congenital FVII deficiency.

INTERVENTION

Preoperative evaluation confirmed the necessity of recombinant activated factor VII (rFVIIa) replacement therapy. We monitored the plasma factor VII activity (FVII:C) and coagulation function, determined the half-life of rFVIIa in the patient, and administered personalized rFVIIa replacement therapy.

OUTCOMES

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy was performed successfully, and the patient recovered well without any complications.

LESSONS

The clinical manifestations and severity of bleeding in patients with congenital FVII deficiency can vary widely. The history of massive bleeding and plasma FVII:C are the decisive factors when implementing a replacement therapy. The actual half-life of rFVIIa can be determined from intensive monitoring results of plasma FVII:C at the beginning of replacement therapy, which could further guide the personalization of rFVIIa replacement therapy.

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis and congenital factor VII deficiency: a case report

Background

Hemophagocytic lymfohistiocytosis (HLH) is a rare, life-threatening hyperinflammation, characterized by immune system over-activation resulting in hemophagocytosis. HLH could appear as a primary disease caused by mutations of immune-regulatory genes, or develop as a result of viral or bacterial infections, or malignancy. Congenital factor VII (FVII) deficiency is a rare autosomal recessive disorder characterized by prolonged prothrombin time (PT) and low FVII, which may increase bleeding risk.

Case presentation

A 50-year-old woman was admitted for a fever persisted for 20 days, presenting with cytopenia, high hyperferritinemia, low activity of NK cells. Bone marrow aspiration showed hemophagocytosis. CT scanning found pulmonary infection. EBV and CMV were not detected. Genetic scanning did not find pathogenic mutation of a HLH NGS panel including 26 genes. This patient was treated as recommended by the HLH 2004 Guidelines. Coagulation tests identified FVII deficiency. Genetic analysis of F7 gene in the patient and her family members identified recurrent compound heterozygous F7 c.64 + 5G > A and c.1224 T > G (p.His408Gln) mutations in this patient and her brother who showed postoperative hemorrhage after surgical resection of renal cell carcinoma. Heterozygotes in this family were asymptomatic.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first report of HLH in combination with congenital FVII deficiency in Chinese population.

Molecular Characterization of Iranian Patients with Inherited Coagulation Factor VII Deficiency

Coagulation factor VII (FVII) is a key enzyme of the extrinsic coagulation cascade that is predominantly produced by hepatocytes. The F7 gene mutations cause FVII deficiency with considerable molecular and phenotypic heterogeneity. We characterized the molecular alterations of the F7 gene and their corresponding mRNA transcripts in Iranian patients from eight unrelated families. The mutations were detected by polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-sequencing of all F7 gene exons, their flanking intronic sequences, as well as their corresponding cDNA fragments. Homozygous P303T, C91S and R304Q mutations were detected in patient 2, patient 5, and patient 6, respectively. Patient 7 was a compound heterozygote for S282R and H348R and patient 8 was a compound heterozygote for R304Q and IVS7+7A>G mutations. Furthermore, our investigation revealed three heterozygous individuals, patient 1 and patient 3 with the A244V mutation who were symptomatic and patient 4 with V(-39)I mutation who was also asymptomatic. The F7 mRNA expression analysis revealed that, except the transcript of V(-39)I, other mutation-harboring transcripts were expressed at detectable levels. In conclusion, this report reinforces the genetic and phenotypic heterogeneity of FVII deficiency. The findings of the mRNA study implied that decreased FVII protein activity subsequent to missense mutations does not completely reflect the degradation of mutation-harboring mRNA.

Factor VII deficiency: a novel missense variant and genotype-phenotype correlation in patients from Southern Italy

This study aimed at attempting to correlate genotype and phenotype in factor VII deficiency. Here, we present molecular and clinical findings of 10 patients with factor VII deficiency. From 2013 to 2016, 10 subjects were referred to our center because of a prolonged prothrombin time identified during routine or presurgery examinations or after a laboratory assessment of a bleeding episode. Mutation characterization was performed using the bioinformatics applications PROMO, SIFT, and Polyphen-2. Structural changes in the factor VII protein were analyzed using the SPDB viewer tool. Of the 10 variants we identified, 1 was responsible for a novel missense change (c.1199G>C, p.Cys400Ser); in 2 cases we identified the c.-54G>A and c.509G>A (p.Arg170His) polymorphic variants in the 5′-upstream region of the factor VII gene and exon 6, respectively. To our knowledge, neither of these polymorphic variants has been described previously in factor VII-deficient patients. In silico predictions showed differences in binding sites for transcription factors caused by the c.-54G>A variant and a probable damaging effect of the p.Cys400Ser missense change on factor VII active conformation, leading to breaking of the Cys400-Cys428 disulfide bridge. Our findings further suggest that, independently of factor VII levels and of variants potentially affecting factor VII levels, environmental factors, e.g., trauma, could heavily influence the clinical phenotype of factor VII-deficient patients.

Factor VII Deficiency: Clinical Phenotype, Genotype and Therapy

Factor VII deficiency is the most common among rare inherited autosomal recessive bleeding disorders, and is a chameleon disease due to the lack of a direct correlation between plasma levels of coagulation Factor VII and bleeding manifestations. Clinical phenotypes range from asymptomatic condition—even in homozygous subjects—to severe life-threatening bleedings (central nervous system, gastrointestinal bleeding). Prediction of bleeding risk is thus based on multiple parameters that challenge disease management. Spontaneous or surgical bleedings require accurate treatment schedules, and patients at high risk of severe hemorrhages may need prophylaxis from childhood onwards. The aim of the current review is to depict an updated summary of clinical phenotype, laboratory diagnosis, and treatment of inherited Factor VII deficiency.