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Updated: Jan 5, 2026

Measurement of Factor V Activity in Human Plasma Using a Microplate Coagulation Assay
Published on: September 9, 2012
Acquired Factor V Deficiency Associated with CFPM Administration
Background:
Acquired factor V deficiency (AFVD) caused by Factor V (FV) inhibition is a rare event, characterized by prolonged prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time. To date, various factors were reported as triggers for developing FV inhibitor. Clinical symptoms range from asymptomatic to life-threatening bleeding. Case Report and Conclusions: Here, we report an 84-year-old Japanese male on hemodialysis due to renal failure who developed subcutaneous hemorrhage after administration of cefepime (CFPM) to treat bacteremia. Deficient FV activity (< 1.0%) was identified and AFVD with FV inhibitor titer of 9 BU/mL was diagnosed. Although the patient had multiple risks for developing FV inhibitor, CFPM was thought to be the major culprit in this case. After the diagnosis, oral prednisolone (30 mg/day) was initiated, but the patient died of respiratory/cardiac failure, unrelated to AFVD.
Insights
A rare case of acquired factor V deficiency (AFVD) occurred in an elderly patient undergoing hemodialysis after cefepime administration. This highlights cefepime as a potential trigger for FV inhibitor development.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Pharmacology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Acquired factor V deficiency (AFVD) is a rare bleeding disorder caused by Factor V (FV) inhibitors.
- It presents with prolonged clotting times and can range from asymptomatic to severe bleeding.
- Various factors have been implicated as triggers for FV inhibitors.
Observation:
- An 84-year-old male on hemodialysis developed subcutaneous hemorrhage post-cefepime treatment for bacteremia.
- Laboratory tests revealed severely deficient FV activity (< 1.0%) and a high FV inhibitor titer (9 BU/mL).
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with acquired factor V deficiency.
- Cefepime was identified as the likely trigger for the FV inhibitor, despite other potential risk factors.
- Treatment with oral prednisolone was initiated.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for cefepime to induce FV inhibitors, even in patients with multiple comorbidities.
- Early recognition and management of AFVD are crucial.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms linking antibiotics to FV inhibition.
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