Inherited Hemophilia-A Multidimensional Chronic Disease That Requires a Multidisciplinary Approach

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics and Sports Medicine
• Hematology
• Rheumatology

Background:

• Articular damage is a significant complication of hereditary hemophilia, affecting large joints.
• Hereditary coagulopathies like hemophilia A and B necessitate a multidisciplinary approach due to their complexity.
• Hemophilic arthropathy prevalence and joint involvement patterns require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of hemophilic arthropathy in northeastern Romania.
• To identify commonly affected joints in hemophilia patients.
• To assess correlations between arthropathy, hemophilia type, treatment, and comorbidities.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study of 36 adults with hemophilia A and B.
• Osteoarticular system evaluation using the modified Hemophilia Joint Health Score (mHJHS).
• Assessment of 12 joints based on swelling, pain, atrophy, crepitus, and range of motion loss.

Main Results:

• Severe joint damage was most frequent in knees, ankles, elbows, and wrists.
• Severe hemophilia correlated with severe joint damage (p < 0.05).
• Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection was linked to severe joint damage and intermittent prophylaxis.

Conclusions:

• Multidisciplinary medical services are crucial for comprehensive hemophilia care.
• Effective management requires addressing the condition's complications and comorbidities.
• Tailored treatment strategies, considering disease severity and comorbidities, are vital.