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Hemophilia in Children

Hemophilia is an X-linked inherited bleeding disorder that manifests in male children with deep tissue and joint bleeding.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Hemophilia in Children?

Hemophilia is an inherited bleeding disorder caused by deficiency of factor VIII (haemophilia A, 85%) or factor IX (haemophilia B, 15%). Inheritance is X-linked recessive; mostly seen in male children.

Severity is classified by factor activity: severe (<1%), moderate (1–5%) and mild (5–40%). Severe hemophilia presents in the first year of life with spontaneous bleeding.

The most serious complication is recurrent joint bleeding (haemarthrosis) — particularly in the knees, elbows and ankles — leading to chronic synovitis and arthropathy.

Symptoms

Easy bruising and prolonged bleeding
Spontaneous joint bleeding (haemarthrosis)
Muscle bleeding and haematoma
Excessive bleeding after circumcision (warning sign in newborns)
Excessive bleeding after dental procedures
Intracranial haemorrhage (life-threatening)
Haematuria and gastrointestinal bleeding

Risk Factors

Family history of hemophilia (mother as carrier)
Male sex (X-linked inheritance)
De novo mutation (30% of cases)
Sister of an affected boy may be a carrier
Consanguineous marriage (in rare AR forms)
Trauma and surgical procedures (bleeding trigger)
Aspirin and NSAID use (worsens bleeding)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Newborn male children of mothers with known carrier status must be screened
  • Joint pain and swelling, head trauma require emergency department admission
  • Excessive bleeding after dental procedures or surgery requires investigation
  • Paediatric haematologist follow-up should be lifelong

Treatment Methods

01
Factor VIII (haemophilia A) or factor IX (haemophilia B) concentrate infusion
02
Prophylactic factor administration (severe hemophilia, 2–3 times a week)
03
Emicizumab (subcutaneous monoclonal antibody, modern treatment)
04
Desmopressin (mild haemophilia A)
05
Tranexamic acid (mucosal bleeding, post-tooth extraction)
06
Physiotherapy and joint protection

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.