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What is the magnitude of increase of the PTT in someone with hemophilia A when compared to someone with vWF type I disease?

User Crocsx
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Final answer:

Hemophilia A generally results in a greater increase in PTT than vWD Type I due to a deficiency of factor VIII, which is central to the coagulation cascade. vWD Type I affects platelet adhesion and typically leads to a lesser alteration of PTT. The extent of PTT increase varies by individual and severity of the disorder.

Step-by-step explanation:

Hemophilia A typically exhibits a greater increase in prothrombin time (PTT) than von Willebrand Disease (vWD) Type I. This is due to the deficiency of factor VIII in hemophilia A, which is crucial in the intrinsic pathway of blood coagulation. In contrast, vWD Type I involves a deficiency of von Willebrand factor (vWF), which affects platelet adhesion but has less impact on the PTT compared to hemophilia A.

Both factor VIII and vWF are important for proper blood coagulation, and deficiencies in these can lead to prolonged bleeding. Hemophilia A's impact on PTT is more significant since factor VIII's role in the intrinsic pathway directly affects the clotting time measured by PTT. vWD Type I, while still affecting clotting, usually results in a lesser alteration of PTT due to its primary role in platelet function rather than the coagulation cascade itself.

It is crucial to understand that the specific magnitude of PTT increase can vary among individuals and is influenced by the severity of the factor deficiency. Diagnoses are confirmed via specific clotting factor assays and genetic testing, rather than PTT alone. Regular infusions of clotting factors are the main treatment method to manage severe cases and prevent bleeding complications.

User Mvermef
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