Acquired hemophilia A (AHA): underreported, underdiagnosed, undertreated medical condition
Doaa El Demerdash, Alia Ayad, Noha Tawfik
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Acquired hemophilia A (AHA) is a rare acquired bleeding disorder occurred due to the formation of inhibitory antibodies neutralizing endogenous factor VIII. MAIN BODY: About half the cases are idiopathic. Symptoms include severe and unexpected bleeding that could be life-threatening. High index of suspicion should be raised when unexplained subcutaneous or post-surgical bleeding with isolated prolonged APTT. CONCLUSIONS: Acquired hemophilia A is a rare underdiagnosed underreported acquired hemostatic disorder that presents with sudden usually life-threatening bleeding; it is crucial to raise awareness and suspicion index of clinicians for early diagnosis and treatment to avoid morbidity and mortality.