Hemophilia: In Review

Educational Gap General pediatricians rarely encounter bleeding in a neonate or a child, so it is important to know the genetics of hemophilia and to be aware of the clinical manifestations of bleeding disorders in order to appropriately identify those children at risk, ensure early diagnosis and treatment, and prevent complications. Objectives After completing this article, readers should be able to: 1. Describe the coagulation system and the basic physiology of blood clotting. 2. Know the genetics of hemophilia and be able to estimate the relative risk of hemophilia in carriers of the mutation. 3. Discuss the clinical manifestations and the potential complications of hemophilia. 4. List the initial laboratory studies needed to evaluate children who have bleeding. 5. Understand the role of comprehensive care in the treatment of patients with hemophilia.