FABROA, MARIA JESSICA ERLINDA P.

BSN III

Activated Protein C Resistance and Factor V Laiden Mutation Narrative

Pathophysiology

Activated Protein C Resistance (APC) is a common condition that can occur with
other hypercoagulable states. It is an anticoagulant, and resistance to APC increases
the risk of venous thrombosis. A molecular defect in the factor V gene has been
identified in most (90%) patients with APC resistance (Cheever, K. & Hinkle, J. 2018).
Factor V Leiden (FAK-tur five LIDE-n) is a mutation of one of the clotting factors in the
blood. This mutation can increase your chance of developing abnormal blood clots,
most commonly in your legs or lungs (Mayo Clinic 2020).

The pathophysiology of these disorders focuses on the coagulation cascade.

Due to genetic mutation, the normal control mechanism which stops the clotting factors
from creating a coagulation cascade is compromised. As the coagulation cascade
occurs, thrombosis may occur. If its in the deep vein in the legs, it could lead to Deep
Vein Thrombosis, if it is in the lungs, it could for a pulmonary embolus, and if it’s in the
Venous Sinus in the Brain it can form a Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis.
Thrombosis can block or obstruct blood flow in the affected area resulting to symptoms
such as; Swelling of lower leg, Discomfort or pain in inhalation, Redness and
discoloration, Headache, Confusion, as well as cause serious complications, that can
even result to death.

The prognosis is benign, unless complication occurs in which it could pose a

threat for the client. Most people who have with FVL will never develop blood clots.
Most women with the condition will have healthy, normal pregnancies. But the risks may
be higher if a person has inherited two mutated copies of the gene.

References:

Cheever, K. H., & Hinkle, J. L. (2018). Brunner & Suddarth's textbook of medical-
surgical nursing. Philadelphia: Wolters Kluwer.
Factor V Leiden. (2020, August 01). Retrieved December 10, 2020, from
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/factor-v-leiden/symptoms-
causes/syc-20372423

Moake, J. (n.d.). Factor V Resistance to Activated Protein C (APC) - Hematology and

Oncology. Retrieved December 10, 2020, from
https://www.msdmanuals.com/professional/hematology-and-oncology/thrombotic-
disorders/factor-v-resistance-to-activated-protein-c-apc