Factor V Leiden

Factor V Leiden is a hypercoagulative condition caused by a mutation in factor V. Factor V is one component in the clotting pathway that involves many proteins and regulators. Excess coagulation occurs from factor V mutation because the gene defect results in the protein always being active. Factor V is normally able to be “switched off” by anti-clotting factor protein C so that coagulation is regulated. In veins, where the blood flow is slower than in arteries, blood clots can form, break away, and cause blockages in other places in the body. A thrombotic event caused by hypercoagulation may be the first indicator that a person has factor V Leiden. Indicators of the condition factor V Leiden are clots, pulmonary embolism, and deep vein thrombosis. Symptoms of a clot are warmth, swelling, pain, and redness in the area of the occluded vessel. Classical symptoms and signs of pulmonary embolism (when a clot has made its way to the lungs):

• Acute chest pain with inhalations
• Shortness of breath
• Decreased blood oxygen level (hypoxia)
• Increased heart and respiratory rates
• Unexplained dyspnea or tachypnea (difficulty breathing or too-rapid respirations)
• Cough with sputum that may or may not be blood-tinged

Complications of factor V Leiden are:

• Deep vein thrombosis
• Stroke
• Pulmonary embolism
• Pregnancy can aggravate and cause thrombotic events in women with factor V Leiden

Risk factors that give one an increased chance of developing factor V Leiden are:

• Being Caucasian
• Familial history of the condition
• Age sixty or older
• Being overweight or obese
• Having the risk factors for deep vein thrombosis

Thrombotic events due to factor V Leiden may be misdiagnosed as another thrombotic event. Clots lead to ischemia, to a lack of oxygen to tissues including the brain. Ischemic conditions for even a few minutes can kill brain tissue. If you or a loved one suffered harm or a death due to factor V Leiden misdiagnosis, you may be eligible for damages. Call the Sweeney Law Firm and let us review the facts to see if you have a medical malpractice case. If we take your case, there is no charge for representation unless a settlement or recovery of funds is made on your behalf.