What is a standard treatment approach for hemophilia?

What is a standard treatment approach for hemophilia?

• A. Prophylactic infusions of the deficient factor
• B. Daily aspirin
• C. Heparin anticoagulation
• D. Platelet transfusion as the only therapy

Answer: (A)

The main idea being tested is that replacing the missing clotting factor on a regular schedule is the standard way to prevent bleeding in hemophilia. In hemophilia A or B, there is a deficiency of factor VIII or IX, which slows the formation of a proper clot. Giving those factors prophylactically through regular IV infusions keeps their levels enough to prevent spontaneous bleeds, especially into joints, and to reduce long-term joint damage. This approach improves daily functioning and quality of life compared with waiting to treat bleeds after they occur. Airing aspirin would worsen bleeding since it inhibits platelets. Heparin is an anticoagulant and would increase bleeding risk in someone with a factor deficiency. Platelet transfusion alone doesn’t replace the missing coagulation factors and isn’t used as the sole therapy for hemophilia.

The main idea being tested is that replacing the missing clotting factor on a regular schedule is the standard way to prevent bleeding in hemophilia. In hemophilia A or B, there is a deficiency of factor VIII or IX, which slows the formation of a proper clot. Giving those factors prophylactically through regular IV infusions keeps their levels enough to prevent spontaneous bleeds, especially into joints, and to reduce long-term joint damage. This approach improves daily functioning and quality of life compared with waiting to treat bleeds after they occur.

Airing aspirin would worsen bleeding since it inhibits platelets. Heparin is an anticoagulant and would increase bleeding risk in someone with a factor deficiency. Platelet transfusion alone doesn’t replace the missing coagulation factors and isn’t used as the sole therapy for hemophilia.