3. Diagnosing the Invisible – The Challenges in Identifying Hemophilia C
Initial symptoms of Hemophilia C are often subtle. They mimic common bleeding disorders. This resemblance leads to frequent misdiagnoses. It’s not uncommon for Hemophilia C to be mistaken for other conditions.
Blood tests are central to diagnosing Hemophilia C. They measure Factor XI levels in the blood. Low levels confirm the diagnosis. These tests help differentiate Hemophilia C from other bleeding disorders.
A detailed medical history is crucial for diagnosis. It reveals patterns of bleeding disorders within families. Physicians often rely on this history alongside blood tests for an accurate diagnosis.
For many, the path to a Hemophilia C diagnosis is long. Symptoms may be attributed to other causes initially. It often takes a significant bleeding event to prompt further investigation. This delay highlights the need for greater awareness and faster diagnostic pathways. (3)
