Quicklink to the 5 Signs for  


Identification of a potential coagulation disorder.

  • Approximately 1% of the general population has a mutation in the von Willebrand factor gene.
  • Female carriers of hemophilia A & B have an
    increased risk of bleeding after trauma and
    medical interventions.12
    - The risk of prolonged bleeding after surgery is
      2.5 times higher in carriers than in
      non-carriers.12
  • Over 75% of bleeds in patients with severe
    hemophilia are joint bleeds.23
  • A simple interview is useful as a screening tool.19

Any of the following situations could indicate a coagulation disorder:

  • Abnormal bleeding after childbirth, circumcision or at menarche.
  • Large hematomas resulting from minor injuries or
    intramuscular injections.
  • Chronic intermittent joint pain.
When discussing surgery, ask the patient whether he or she has had symptoms of potential coagulation disorders.

This takes only 5 minutes – better safe than sorry!




Ask the patient about the 5 Signs

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