Acquired Hemophilia A: A Rare but Potentially Fatal Bleeding Disorder

Abstract

Acquired hemophilia A is a disorder of rare entity, resulting in spontaneous bleeding in individuals with no history of bleeding disorders. It is believed to be caused by spontaneous inhibition of clotting factor VIII by autoantibodies, and is usually associated with other autoimmune conditions. The hallmark of this condition is mucocutaneous bleeding leading to ecchymosis, melena, hematoma or hematuria. Our discussion revolves around the case of an elderly male with no history of anticoagulant use presenting with hematuria. Imaging showed left kidney hemorrhage, his labs were significant for a prolonged partial thromboplastin time (PTT), and subsequent tests revealed low factor VIII levels and high factor VIII inhibitor levels, which led to the diagnosis of acquired hemophilia A in the patient. He was managed with medications resulting in normalization of factor VIII levels.