Congenital antithrombin III deficiency
Definition
Antithrombin III deficiency is a genetic disorder that causes the blood to clot abnormally.
Alternative Names
Deficiency - antithrombin III - congenital; Antithrombin III deficiency - congenital
Causes
Antithrombin III is a protein in the blood that blocks blood clots from forming. Congenital antithrombin III deficiency is a genetic disease. It occurs when a person receives one abnormal copy of a gene from a parent with the disease.
The abnormal gene leads to low levels of antithrombin III. These low levels of antithrombin III can cause abnormal blood clots (thrombi) that may damage organs.
Review Date:
4/27/2007
Reviewed By:
Rita Nanda, M.D., Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology/Oncology, University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997-
A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
