Arterial thromboembolic events in patients with the factor V Leiden mutation.
BACKGROUND
The factor V Leiden mutation affects 6% of the United States population and is known to be associated with venous thrombosis. We identify, herein, 30 individuals with the Leiden mutation and known arterial thromboembolic events.


METHODS
The factor V mutation was assessed using polymerase chain reaction.


RESULTS
In the 16 patients sustaining a cerebrovascular accident, the mean age was 44.1 and 11 (69%) were younger than 50. Similarly, the 13 patients presenting with an acute myocardial infarction were relatively young with a mean age of 45.5, and 9 (65%) patients presented at less than 50 years of age. Radiographic information was available for 19 patients in this study. No significant arterial atherosclerotic disease was demonstrated in 18 (95%) of these patients.


CONCLUSIONS
This study demonstrates an association between the factor V Leiden mutation and the development of unexplained arterial thromboembolic events, especially in younger patients without existing atherosclerotic disease.
Eskandari
M K
MK
Department of Vascular Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pennsylvania, USA.
Bontempo
F A
FA
Hassett
A C
AC
Faruki
H
H
Makaroun
M S
MS
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D000792:Angiography; D002533:Cerebral Angiography; D002561:Cerebrovascular Disorders / Q000097:blood / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology; D017023:Coronary Angiography; D005165:Factor V / Q000235:genetics*; D005260:Female; D005385:Fingers / Q000098:blood supply / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D006801:Humans; D007511:Ischemia / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009203:Myocardial Infarction / Q000097:blood / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology; D017354:Point Mutation; D016133:Polymerase Chain Reaction; D013923:Thromboembolism / Q000097:blood / Q000209:etiology*
D005165:Factor V