Unexplained bleeding related to acquired factor XIII deficiency: A case report
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Case Report
Abstract: Introduction: Acquired factor XIII (F XIII ) deficiency is a rare and often underdiagnosed bleeding disorder. Because standard coagulation tests typically yield normal results, diagnosis and treatment are often delayed in patients with unexplained hemorrhage. Case Presentation: We report the case of a 56-year-old man who presented with severe, recurrent epistaxis unresponsive to conventional management. Initial coagulation tests—including prothrombin time, international normalized ratio, activated partial thromboplastin time, and fibrinogen levels—were all within normal limits. Despite interventional radiology and surgical measures, bleeding persisted. An F XIII activity assay revealed a mild deficiency (48.7%; reference range: 60–130%). Administration of recombinant F XIII (catridecacog, 10 IU/kg) led to rapid clinical improvement and resolution of bleeding. Discussion: This case illustrates the diagnostic challenge posed by acquired F XIII deficiency and underscores the importance of including it in the differential diagnosis of unexplained bleeding, especially when standard coagulation parameters are unremarkable. Conclusion: Prompt recognition and targeted replacement therapy with recombinant F XIII can be life-saving in acquired F XIII deficiency. F XIII activity testing should be considered early in patients with persistent bleeding of unknown origin.
Authors: Antonio Romanelli, Ilaria Santoriello, Ilaria Cione, Salvatore Palmese, Alessandro Calicchio, Ludovica Iovine, Renato Gammaldi
Subfield: Hematology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7128090928
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