Resistance to activated protein C due to factor V Leiden mutation: high prevalence in patients with post-thrombotic leg ulcers.
BACKGROUND
Activated protein C (APC) resistance is the most frequently diagnosed heritable thrombophilic defect predisposing to thrombosis.


OBJECTIVE
To determine the prevalence of APC resistance due to factor V Leiden mutation in patients with leg ulcers.


METHODS
Within a 2-year-period 100 consecutive patients with leg ulcers were examined for factor V Leiden mutation.


RESULTS
APC resistance due to factor V Leiden mutation was detected in 19 of 53 patients (36%) with post-thrombotic leg ulcers and in three of 47 patients (6%) with ulcers caused by primary varicosis. In a healthy control group APC resistance due to factor V Leiden mutation was found in five of 96 (5%) volunteers.


CONCLUSIONS
In view of this high prevalence of APC resistance of 36%, which has never previously been reported, patients with post-thrombotic leg ulcers should be investigated for APC resistance.
Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, D-23538 Lübeck, Germany.
Y
Y
Gaber
H J
HJ
Siemens
W
W
Schmeller
D020016:Activated Protein C Resistance / Q000150:complications* / Q000235:genetics; D000368:Aged; D005165:Factor V / Q000235:genetics*; D005260:Female; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D017354:Point Mutation; D011186:Postphlebitic Syndrome / Q000209:etiology* / Q000235:genetics; D012307:Risk Factors; D014647:Varicose Ulcer / Q000209:etiology* / Q000235:genetics
C095381:factor V Leiden; D005165:Factor V