From the Editor

Haemophilia, a bleeding disorder, is our cover story this week. Haemophilia is caused by a deficiency in one of the blood clotting factors. Haemophilia A (classic haemophilia), which accounts for about 80 percent of all cases is a deficiency in clotting factor VIII. Haemophilia B (Christmas disease) is a deficiency in clotting factor IX. The bleeding patterns and consequences of these types of Haemophilia are similar. Both are inherited and in this familial disease there is a dangers tendency to persistent bleeding and when an accident or operation involving loss of blood occurs there is extreme danger to life, since the bleeding is difficult to control owing to a lack in the blood of a clotting substance, antihurmophilic globulin or factor VIII.

The condition affects males but is passed through the family by the female live. Daughters of haemophilic fathers should not bear children if they marry; mortality is high among haemophilics however great care is taken. Haemophilics must strenuously avoid all risks of loss of blood, as from dental extractions or minor abrasions, if bleeding occurs, fresh plasma or concentrates of the missing factor must be given promptly. Sometimes transfusions of wholes blood may be needed.

Generally, the first bleeding episode occurs before 18 months of age, often after a minor injury. A child who has haemophilia bruises easily. Even an injection into muscle can cause bleeding that results in a large burise (haematoma). Recurring bleeding into the joints and muscles can ultimately lead to crippling deformities. Bleeding can swell the base of the tongue until it blocks the airway making breathing difficult. A slight bump on the head can trigger substantial bleeding in the skill, causing brain damage and death.