Hemophilia A is a bleeding disorder due to a deficiency of factor VIII. It is an X-linked recessive inherited disorder and occurs mostly in males. Patients present with prolonged bleeding following injuries, surgical procedures, and dental extractions. Age of onset will vary based on phenotype severity, but most patients are diagnosed in early childhood or adolescence.

Patients can have variable phenotypes. A small percentage of female carriers may present with a mild phenotype. In its most severe phenotype, patients can present with spontaneous hemorrhage.

Rarely, hemophilic pseudotumors may result from destruction of bone at sites of repeated bleeding. They may cause swelling and restricted movement.

Left untreated, hemophilia A may be fatal (intracranial hemorrhage) or result in severe motor impairment or paralysis (chronic joint disease).

Hemophilia A is a lifelong condition with no known cure. Management focuses primarily on prevention and symptom control.

Related topic: hemophilia B