Complication of long-term hemophilia –
**Question:** Complication of long-term hemophilia -
A. Haemophilic arthropathy
B. Hepatitis C infection
C. Chronic kidney disease
D. Pulmonary embolism
**Correct Answer:** A. Haemophilic arthropathy
**Core Concept:**
Long-term hemophilia is a congenital bleeding disorder caused by deficiency or dysfunction of coagulation factors, specifically Factor VIII or Factor IX. This leads to uncontrolled bleeding episodes and impaired clot formation when required. Hemophilic arthropathy is a complication that occurs due to repeated joint bleeds in patients with hemophilia.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right:**
Haemophilic arthropathy occurs because of the repeated joint bleeds in patients with hemophilia. These bleeds cause synovial membrane inflammation, leading to joint destruction, deformities, and reduced joint mobility. Over time, this can cause chronic joint pain, disability, and decreased quality of life.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
A. Hepatitis C infection: This viral infection is unrelated to hemophilia, as it is caused by a virus that affects liver cells and leads to liver damage. Hepatitis C is not a direct consequence of the underlying coagulation factor deficiency in hemophilia.
B. Chronic kidney disease: While hemophilia can indirectly lead to kidney complications through infections, bleeds, or autoimmune reactions, it is not directly caused by the coagulation factor deficiency. Hemophilia-related chronic kidney disease is more commonly associated with inhibitors (antibodies against coagulation factors), rather than the deficiency itself.
C. Pulmonary embolism: Hemophilia increases the risk of venous thromboembolism due to prolonged immobilization, deep venous thrombosis, and Factor VIII inhibitors. However, pulmonary embolism is not the direct complication resulting from the coagulation factor deficiency itself.
D. Pulmonary embolism: Similar to option C, pulmonary embolism is a risk in hemophiliacs due to immobilization, deep venous thrombosis, and Factor VIII inhibitors. However, it is not a direct consequence of the coagulation factor deficiency.
**Clinical Pearl:**
In hemophiliacs, focus is on early detection, prevention, and management of complications like joint bleeds, inhibitors, and thromboembolic events. Adequate prophylactic treatment, including replacement therapy and physiotherapy, is essential to minimize these complications. Early intervention can improve the quality of life and prevent severe joint deformities and disabilities in these patients.