Introductory Chapter: Hemophilia

Abstract

Hemophilia disease is caused by deficiency of coagulation factors VIII and IX. Former is called hemophilia A (80–85%) whereas latter is labeled hemophilia B (10–15%). Hemophilia A and B are X-linked disorders, have common clinical presentation, with no racial predilection and are seen in all ethnic groups. The incidence is 1 in 5000 male births. A rare variety of hemophilia—hemophilia C or Rosenthal syndrome (factor XI deficiency) is seen in Jews of Ashkenazi descent. It is a milder form of hemophilia and because of autosomal transmission affects both the sexes. As per annual global surveys by WFH number of PWH (people with hemophilia) is approximately 400,000 [1].