Hemophilia A is due to a deficiency of which factor?

Hemophilia A is specifically caused by a deficiency in Factor VIII. This factor plays a critical role in the blood coagulation cascade, which is essential for the proper formation of blood clots. In Hemophilia A, the lack of Factor VIII leads to impaired ability for the blood to clot, resulting in prolonged bleeding episodes and difficulty in controlling bleeding after injuries.

The significance of Factor VIII is highlighted in its involvement in the intrinsic pathway of the coagulation process. When there is a deficiency, patients may experience symptoms such as spontaneous bleeding, joint bleeding, and excessive bleeding after surgery. Managing Hemophilia A often involves factor replacement therapy that provides the necessary Factor VIII in order to help mitigate the risk of bleeding complications.