Management of an infant with hemophilia A

Hemophilia A is the most common X-linked bleeding disorder, occurring in approximately 1 in 5000 males across all races and ethnicities. A congenital deficiency or absence of coagulation factor VIII leaves these patients prone to excessive and prolonged bleeding, especially joint and muscle hemorrhages as well as postsurgical, oral, and soft tissue bleeding. Recurrent bleeding into joints leads to chronic arthropathy. Replacement of the deficient factor VIII with plasma-derived or recombinant factor concentrates is the cornerstone of management. Dosing and frequency are determined by the desired plasma factor level, clinical response, and product characteristics.