Complications

On occasion, complications can occur in hemophilia A as a result of either the condition itself or the treatment, such as replacement therapy. Complications include development of inhibitors, joint damage, and hepatitis.

Joint damage

One of the major complications of hemophilia is joint damage, or “hemophilic arthropathy,” which can occur when there is bleeding into joints. This is the most common clinical complication of hemophilia. Bleeding into knees, elbows, ankles, shoulders and hips can lead to chronic swelling and, possibly, joint deformity. Many people with severe hemophilia can suffer from painful, debilitating joint bleeds and associated mobility issues that can negatively affect their quality of life.

Complications of replacement therapy

In some patients with hemophilia, the immune system produces an antibody that inhibits the action of replacement blood products and prevents blood clots from being formed. This antibody is known as an inhibitor. The presence of an inhibitor makes treatment of bleeding episodes more difficult. An inhibitor destroys the clotting factor before it has a chance to stop the bleeding. Learn more about inhibitors.

Virus Risk

HIV transmission by factor concentrates in the United States has not occurred since 1986. This is primarily due to the development of viral inactivation methods now used in the manufacturing of blood products. In addition, new screening methods and product processing procedures are now in place, and progress continues to be made.

Hepatitis

Since 1997, there have been no reports of hepatitis C transmission through clotting factor treated with newer processes.

There are six main hepatitis viruses, but almost 95% of all hepatitis cases are hepatitis A, B or C. Symptoms may include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, joint aches, liver tenderness and enlargement and weight loss.

The Medical and Scientific Advisory Council recommends that all patients with bleeding disorders receive a hepatitis A and B vaccination. Currently, there is no vaccination for hepatitis C.