Factor VII deficiency with intracranial hemorrhage: a case report

Factor VII deficiency is an autosomal recessive hereditary disorder characterized by a normal partial thromboplastin time and a prolonged prothrombin time. Definite diagnosis of this condition requires a specific Factor VII assay. Its quite uncommon occurrence in the newborn was first described by Alexander and associates in 1951. A one-day-old male, full-term newborn was presented here with skin pallor, respiratory distress and bitemporal bulging masses noted immediately after birth. Computed tomography scan of the brain revealed a subgaleal hematoma and subarachnoid hemorrhage. Laboratory studies revealed prolonged prothrombin time and a Factor VII level less than 1%. Literature on the clinical manifestation and management of Factor VII deficiency is reviewed briefly.