OBJECTIVETo perform phenotypic diagnosis, genetic diagnosis and prenatal diagnosis of inherited coagulation factor XIII (FXIII)deficiency in a Chinese family also provide a review of inherited coagulation F XIII deficiency.

METHODSThe activity levels of F XIII (F XIII:C) of proband and family members were measured by clot solubility test and REA-chrom F XIII kit. The antigen levels of F XIII(FXIII:Ag) were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Thrombelastography (TEG) test was used to make a comprehensive evaluation of coagulation status in the proband. All 15 exons and exon-intron boundaries of the F13A1 gene were amplified by PCR, and DNA sequencing was performed then. The mutation identified in the proband was screened in the family members. Furthermore, the related literatures were reviewed to provide a profile of clinical manifestation, gene mutations, the relationship between the mutations and phenotype, and treatments of inherited coagulation F XIII deficient cases.

RESULTSThe clot solubility test was positive in the proband. The FXIII:Ag level of the proband was less than 1% and the FXIII:C level was below the lower limit of detection (<3%). Two compound heterozygous missense mutations (p.Arg662* and p.Trp665*) were identified in the proband. Family study showed that the two mutations were both inherited from the parents. The fetus also carried two compound heterozygous mutations, the same as the proband, and was diagnosed with severe F XIII deficiency. As reported in the literatures, most mutations were missense mutations and nonsense mutations, and no hot spot was found. The clinical pattern of F XIII deficiency varied among patients, with potentially fatal consequences from severe bleeding complications.

CONCLUSIONBetter understanding of F XIII biochemical properties and function and developing of FXIII laboratory assays and genetic detection could prevent missed diagnosis, and patients moght benefit from better care.