Factor VIII (medication)

Factor VIII (medication)

Factor VIII (pronounced: Factor Eight) is a protein and an essential blood clotting factor also known as anti-hemophilic factor (AHF). In humans, Factor VIII is encoded by the F8 gene. Defects in this gene result in hemophilia A, a recessive X-linked coagulation disorder.

Etymology

The term "Factor VIII" is derived from the classification of blood clotting factors which was largely established in the mid-20th century. The "VIII" is a Roman numeral representing its position among the identified factors.

Medical Uses

Factor VIII is used in the medical treatment of hemophilia A. It can be used to prevent and control bleeding in people with this condition. It works by helping the blood form clots to seal broken blood vessels.

Pharmacology

Factor VIII is produced in liver sinusoidal cells and endothelial cells outside of the liver throughout the body. It is unclear how much Factor VIII is produced by the liver versus other sites. Some studies suggest that the liver is the primary source of Factor VIII, but these results are controversial.

Related Terms

• Hemophilia A
• Blood clotting factors
• Protein
• F8 gene
• Liver sinusoidal cells
• Endothelial cells

See Also

• Factor IX
• Factor X
• Von Willebrand factor

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Factor VIII (medication)
• Wikipedia's article - Factor VIII (medication)

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