Bleeding diathesis

Bleeding diathesis is a medical condition characterized by an abnormal propensity towards bleeding or hemorrhage. It is often caused by coagulopathy (disorders of blood coagulation). Various diseases and conditions can lead to a bleeding diathesis, including hemophilia, Von Willebrand disease, and platelet disorders.

Causes

Bleeding diathesis can be caused by a variety of conditions, most of which involve the blood's ability to clot. These include:

• Hemophilia: A genetic disorder that impairs the body's ability to make blood clots, a process needed to stop bleeding. This results in people bleeding longer after an injury, easy bruising, and an increased risk of bleeding inside joints or the brain.
• Von Willebrand disease: A genetic disorder caused by missing or defective von Willebrand factor (VWF), a clotting protein. VWF binds factor VIII, a key clotting protein, and platelets in blood vessel walls, which help form a platelet plug during the clotting process.
• Platelet disorders: These can be either a low number of platelets (thrombocytopenia), or functionally defective platelets (thrombasthenia).

Symptoms

The symptoms of bleeding diathesis depend on the cause and severity of the condition. They may include:

• Frequent nosebleeds
• Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
• Excessive bleeding from small cuts or injuries
• Unexplained bruising
• Blood in the urine or stool
• Joint pain and swelling

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of bleeding diathesis typically involves blood tests to evaluate clotting times and platelet function. Genetic testing may be used to identify conditions like hemophilia or Von Willebrand disease.

Treatment

Treatment for bleeding diathesis depends on the underlying cause. It may include medications to promote clotting, infusions of clotting factors or platelets, and in severe cases, blood transfusions.

See also

• Coagulation
• Hemostasis
• Blood diseases