Activated protein C resistance (APCR) is a recently discovered, medically important cause of venous thrombosis. More than 95% of cases are due to factor V Leiden (FVL), a mutated form of factor V that is resistant to degradation by activated protein C. The prevalence of this disorder, which is inherited in an autosomal dominant fashion, is approximately 5% among asymptomatic people of European heritage. In addition, 20 to 60% of patient cohorts with previous thrombosis demonstrate APCR, making it the most common known genetic cause of abnormal thrombophilia. Current laboratory techniques available for diagnosis include functional assays, such as the APC ratio, as well as DNA-based tests that detect the specific genetic anomaly responsible for FVL. A case report is presented, along with a review of the literature highlighting epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical features and methods for laboratory diagnosis.
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