Factor XI deficiency in an Arab Moslem family in Israel

An arab moslem family with members affected by PTA deficiency is described. 3 children were found to have major deficiency, factor XI procoagulant activity being 3, 3 and 4 units/dl. 8 members, including parents, paternal grandparents and 4 siblings, were found to have minor deficiency of factor XI (40 to 68 units/dl). Assays of immunoreactive material in 4 members corresponded to the level of procoagulant activity. In this family, gene expression is autosomal recessive. The only bleeding episode reported was haematuria in the propositus. No other spontaneous, post-trauma or post-operative bleeding was noted. The PTA deficiency was reported until now, mainly in ashkenazi jews. This family is the first case of PTA deficiency ever reported in arab moslems.