Haemorrhagic diathesis

Haemorrhagic Diathesis is a medical condition characterized by an increased tendency towards bleeding due to a disruption in the body's coagulation system. This condition can be congenital, meaning present from birth, or acquired, developing due to another disease or condition. Haemorrhagic diathesis encompasses a wide range of disorders, including but not limited to hemophilia, Von Willebrand Disease, and thrombocytopenia. These disorders can affect various components of the blood coagulation system, including platelets, coagulation factors, and the blood vessels themselves.

Causes

The causes of haemorrhagic diathesis are varied and depend on the specific disorder. Genetic mutations can lead to congenital forms such as hemophilia, where there is a deficiency or absence of specific coagulation factors. Acquired forms can result from conditions such as vitamin K deficiency, liver disease, or the use of certain medications that affect blood clotting, such as anticoagulants.

Symptoms

Symptoms of haemorrhagic diathesis can range from mild to severe and include:

• Easy or excessive bruising
• Frequent nosebleeds
• Prolonged bleeding from cuts
• Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding in women
• Bleeding gums
• Bleeding in joints, muscles, and internal organs in severe cases

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of haemorrhagic diathesis involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. These tests may include:

• Complete blood count (CBC)
• Platelet count
• Prothrombin time (PT)
• Activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT)
• Bleeding time
• Factor assays for specific coagulation factors

Treatment

Treatment for haemorrhagic diathesis varies depending on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. It may include:

• Replacement therapy for missing or deficient coagulation factors
• Medications to stimulate the production of certain blood components
• Platelet transfusions
• Avoidance of medications that exacerbate bleeding
• In cases of vitamin K deficiency, supplementation of vitamin K

Prevention

Preventive measures for haemorrhagic diathesis primarily focus on managing the underlying condition and avoiding situations that could trigger bleeding. For individuals with known bleeding disorders, wearing medical alert bracelets and informing healthcare providers about their condition are important preventive steps.