Prothrombin Concentrates in Treatment of Christmas Disease and Allied Disorders

Abstract

Chromatographic DEAE-adsorbed prothrombin complex (Hemoplex) was administered to 14 patients with disorders involving depression in the levels of factors II, VII, IX, and X. These included patients with Christmas disease, liver disease, and hypoprothrombinemia induced by bishydroxycoumarin (Dicumarol). In every instance, prompt hemostasis was achieved as evidenced by cessation of hemorrhage and correction of procoagulant deficits. A frequently seen immediate improvement in hemostasis was attributed to the presence of activated surface factor. Limited usage of tricalcium phosphate adsorbed prothrombin complex failed to show significant improvement in subsequent levels of circulating factor IX.