Factor V Leiden

Overview

• Factor V Leiden is a genetic disorder where blood clots form more easily.
• Mutation occurs in a clotting protein called Factor V.
• Most common hypercoagulable disorder in people of Caucasian descent.
• Named after Leiden, a town in Holland where it was first described.

Hemostasis Disorder

• Factor V Leiden affects the hemostasis process.
• Hemostasis stops blood flow after damage to a blood vessel.

Two Steps of Hemostasis

1. Primary Hemostasis
   • Formation of a platelet plug at the injury site.
2. Secondary Hemostasis
   • Involves the coagulation cascade.
   • Multiple clotting factors form a fibrin mesh.
   • Reinforces the platelet plug to form a blood clot.

Additional Resources

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