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Factor V Leiden and prothrombin gene G20210A mutation in children with venous thromboembolism

Mariana Bonduel1, Mirta Hepner, Gabriela Sciuccati

  • 1Servicio de Hematología-Oncología, Hospital de Pediatría Prof. Dr. Juan P. Garrahan, Buenos Aires, Argentina. mbonduel@garrahan.gov.ar

Insights

Factor V Leiden (FVL) mutation is a significant risk factor for pediatric venous thromboembolism (VTE) in Argentina. The prothrombin gene G20210A mutation (PT20210A) did not show a significant association with VTE in this population.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Hematology
  • Thrombosis and Hemostasis
  • Genetic Risk Factors

Background:

  • Venous thromboembolism (VTE) in children is a serious condition.
  • Genetic mutations like Factor V Leiden (FVL) and prothrombin gene G20210A (PT20210A) are known risk factors for VTE in adults.
  • The role of these mutations in pediatric VTE requires further investigation, particularly in diverse populations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the prevalence and association of FVL and PT20210A mutations with VTE in Argentinean children.
  • To determine if these genetic factors significantly increase the risk of VTE in a pediatric cohort.
  • To identify other potential inherited or acquired risk factors in children with VTE.

Main Methods:

  • Prospective study of 130 consecutive children diagnosed with VTE.
  • Detailed hematological analysis including genetic testing for FVL and PT20210A mutations in 110 patients.
  • Comparison of mutation prevalence with a control group to calculate odds ratios (OR) and confidence intervals (CI).

Main Results:

  • Factor V Leiden (FVL) mutation was found to be a significant risk factor for VTE in Argentinean children (OR 3.64; 95% CI: 1.14-11.6, p < 0.029).
  • The prothrombin gene G20210A mutation (PT20210A) did not show a statistically significant increase in VTE risk (OR 1.06; 95% CI: 0.24-4.73, p = 0.938).
  • Combined mutations were present in 5/10 children with identified mutations, and other risk factors were found in 19% of children without these specific mutations.

Conclusions:

  • Factor V Leiden (FVL) is confirmed as a significant risk factor for venous thromboembolism in Argentinean children.
  • The prothrombin gene G20210A mutation (PT20210A) does not appear to be a significant risk factor in this pediatric population.
  • Further research into combined genetic and acquired factors is warranted for a comprehensive understanding of pediatric VTE risk.

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