CHRISTMAS DISEASE Meaning and
Definition
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Christmas disease, also known as Hemophilia B or Factor IX deficiency, is a hereditary bleeding disorder characterized by a deficiency or dysfunction of clotting Factor IX. This condition predominantly affects males and is caused by a gene mutation on the X chromosome.
Individuals with Christmas disease have impaired blood clotting ability due to the insufficient production or malfunctioning of Factor IX, a protein essential for blood clot formation. This deficiency leads to prolonged and excessive bleeding, particularly following injuries, surgeries, or even minor traumas. Additionally, spontaneous bleeding into joints and muscles may occur.
Symptoms of Christmas disease can vary in severity, ranging from mild to severe, depending on the quantity and activity level of Factor IX. Mild cases may lead to prolonged bleeding after dental procedures or minor surgeries, while severe cases might experience life-threatening internal bleeding without apparent cause.
Treatment for Christmas disease primarily involves the administration of clotting Factor IX concentrates either on a preventative basis or to stop bleeding episodes. Regular infusions of Factor IX can help prevent bleeding, improve overall quality of life, and enable individuals with this condition to lead relatively normal lives. Some patients may also benefit from additional medications that promote clot formation or physical therapy to manage joint complications resulting from recurrent bleeds.
It is crucial for individuals with Christmas disease to work closely with healthcare professionals specializing in blood disorders and follow a comprehensive care plan to effectively manage their condition.
Common Misspellings for CHRISTMAS DISEASE
- xhristmas disease
- vhristmas disease
- fhristmas disease
- dhristmas disease
- cgristmas disease
- cbristmas disease
- cnristmas disease
- cjristmas disease
- curistmas disease
- cyristmas disease
- cheistmas disease
- chdistmas disease
- chfistmas disease
- chtistmas disease
- ch5istmas disease
- ch4istmas disease
- chrustmas disease
- chrjstmas disease
- chrkstmas disease
Etymology of CHRISTMAS DISEASE
The term "Christmas Disease" is derived from the surname of the patient in whom the condition was first described. It is named after Stephen Christmas, a patient with a bleeding disorder who was studied by the medical researcher Dr. R.G. Macfarlane in 1952. Stephen Christmas was the first person found to have a deficiency in a clotting factor called Factor IX, which causes Hemophilia B or Christmas Disease. Therefore, the condition was named after the patient in order to honor his contribution to its discovery.
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