What is the Difference Between Hemophilia A and B?

🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚

Hemophilia A and B are both rare, inherited bleeding disorders caused by mutations in the genes encoding coagulation factors. The main differences between these two conditions are the coagulation factors affected and the severity of the symptoms.

Hemophilia A is caused by a deficiency in coagulation factor VIII, while Hemophilia B occurs due to a deficiency in coagulation factor IX. Both conditions result in an inability for the blood to clot properly, leading to excessive bleeding and other complications.

Several factors contribute to the differences in severity between the two types of hemophilia:

  • A higher proportion of people with severe hemophilia A (45%) compared to those with severe hemophilia B (35%).
  • People with severe hemophilia A are more likely to undergo joint replacement surgery.
  • People with severe hemophilia A experience more frequent internal and external bleeding than those with severe hemophilia B.

Despite these differences in severity, the treatment and outlook for both conditions are similar. Both Hemophilia A and B can be managed with proper treatment and therapy, although the severity of the disease will greatly impact the individual's life expectancy and quality of life.

Comparative Table: Hemophilia A vs B

Hemophilia A and B are both rare X-linked bleeding disorders caused by mutations in the genes encoding coagulation factor VIII (FVIII) and factor IX (FIX), respectively. Here is a table summarizing the differences between Hemophilia A and B:

Characteristic Hemophilia A Hemophilia B
Prevalence 1 in 5,000 male live births 1 in 30,000 male live births
Affected Factor Factor VIII (FVIII) Factor IX (FIX)
Mutation Type Point mutations, deletions, insertions, and rearrangements/inversions in the F8 gene Point mutations, deletions, insertions, and rearrangements/inversions in the F9 gene
Null Mutations Prevents the synthesis of any detectable FVIII or FIX antigen Prevents the synthesis of any detectable FIX antigen
Inhibitor Development Approximately 20% of severely affected patients develop inhibitors Less than 3% of severely affected patients develop inhibitors

Despite their differences, both disorders are clinically indistinguishable and present as hemorrhagic diseases of mild, moderate, or life-threatening severity. The severity of the disease is classified according to the plasma level of FVIII or FIX, with the severe form defined as a factor level <1% of normal.