High molecular weight kininogen deficiency

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

High Molecular Weight Kininogen Deficiency (HMWKD) is a rare blood disorder characterized by a deficiency of the protein known as high molecular weight kininogen (HMWK). This protein plays a crucial role in the blood coagulation process and its deficiency can lead to abnormal bleeding.

Overview[edit | edit source]

High molecular weight kininogen (HMWK) is a protein that is part of the kinin-kallikrein system, which is involved in blood coagulation, inflammation, and blood pressure regulation. HMWK is produced in the liver and circulates in the bloodstream. It is a precursor to bradykinin, a potent vasodilator.

Causes[edit | edit source]

High Molecular Weight Kininogen Deficiency is an autosomal recessive disorder, which means that an individual must inherit two copies of the defective gene, one from each parent, in order to develop the disorder. The condition is caused by mutations in the KNG1 gene, which provides instructions for making HMWK.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The primary symptom of HMWKD is a prolonged bleeding time, which can lead to excessive bleeding after injury or surgery. Other symptoms may include easy bruising, nosebleeds, and heavy menstrual periods in women.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of HMWKD is based on laboratory tests that measure the levels of HMWK in the blood. These tests include coagulation tests such as the activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) test, which is prolonged in individuals with HMWKD.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

There is currently no specific treatment for HMWKD. Management of the disorder primarily involves preventing and treating bleeding episodes. This may include the use of antifibrinolytic drugs to prevent bleeding, and blood transfusions to replace lost blood.

See also[edit | edit source]




NIH genetic and rare disease info[edit source]

High molecular weight kininogen deficiency is a rare disease.


High molecular weight kininogen deficiency Resources
Wikipedia
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD