Factor VII in Liver Cirrhosis

Abstract

Factor VII activity and factor VII cross-reacting material (CRM) in plasma of patients with liver cirrhosis have been studied before and after vitamin K₁ parenteral administration. Subjects were divided into two groups according to the absence (group I) or the presence (group II) of the following clinical findings: ascites, portal hypertension, encephalop-athy. Factor VII activity and CRM show a statistically significant correlation (p < 0.001) in all patients. In group II, significantly reduced levels of both activity and CRM were found as compared to the reference and the group I values. No variations were found after vitamin K administration. Different thromboplastins, investigated with respect to their sensitivity for factor VII, acted differently. Patients with normal albumin levels also showed normal levels of factor VII activity and antigen. No correlation was found in group II. The data discussed suggest that in liver cirrhosis with unknown aetiology no immunologically detectable precursor of factor VII is present.

Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism in Cirrhosis Patients

“…However, this perception is contrary to the results of several studies that have shown an increase in thromboembolic risk in cirrhotic patients [11]. Although the levels of several coagulation factors are low in cirrhosis patients [12], they also develop acquired deficiencies in the anti-coagulation factors (including protein C, protein S, and anti-thrombin III) [13]. Additionally, these patients often suffer from physical conditions which prohibit active lifestyles, thus perpetuating the risk of thromboembolism.…”