Hemophilia Treatment in Dubai

Hemophilia Treatment in Dubai at Emirates Hospitals Group. We are dedicated to providing comprehensive, specialized care for patients with Hemophilia, a rare but serious bleeding disorder. Our expert team of hematologists is well-versed in the diagnosis and management of this condition, ensuring patients receive personalized care with the latest treatment options. We understand the challenges faced by individuals with hemophilia and are committed to improving their quality of life through effective, compassionate medical care.

About Hemophilia

Hemophilia is a genetic disorder that impairs the body’s ability to make blood clots, a process essential for stopping bleeding. It is caused by a deficiency in specific clotting factors—proteins in the blood that work together to form clots. The most common types of hemophilia are:

1. Hemophilia A: Caused by a deficiency in Factor VIII.
2. Hemophilia B: Caused by a deficiency in Factor IX.

Hemophilia is typically inherited and primarily affects males, although females can be carriers and may exhibit mild symptoms. It is a lifelong condition, but with modern treatments and comprehensive care, individuals with hemophilia can lead healthy and active lives.

The severity of hemophilia is classified based on the level of clotting factors in the blood:

• Mild Hemophilia: 5-40% of normal clotting factor.
• Moderate Hemophilia: 1-5% of normal clotting factor.
• Severe Hemophilia: Less than 1% of normal clotting factor.

Symptoms & Causes of Hemophilia

The primary symptom of hemophilia is prolonged or spontaneous bleeding, which can occur internally (inside joints and muscles) or externally (from cuts or injuries). Key symptoms include:

• Unexplained and excessive bleeding: This can occur after minor injuries or even without an obvious cause.
• Frequent nosebleeds: Recurrent nosebleeds may be a sign of a bleeding disorder.
• Heavy bleeding after surgery or dental procedures: Prolonged bleeding during and after surgeries is common in hemophilia patients.
• Joint pain and swelling: Repeated bleeding into the joints can cause severe pain, swelling, and limited range of motion.
• Blood in urine or stool: Internal bleeding can sometimes manifest as blood in the urine or stool.

Causes of Hemophilia are primarily genetic. It is an X-linked recessive disorder, meaning the gene causing hemophilia is located on the X chromosome. Since males have only one X chromosome, a single altered gene is sufficient to cause the condition. Females, with two X chromosomes, are typically carriers and may only show mild symptoms if one of their X chromosomes carries the mutated gene.

In rare cases, hemophilia can develop later in life (acquired hemophilia) due to autoimmune diseases, cancers, or complications from certain medications.

Treatment for Hemophilia

At Emirates Hospitals Group, we offer a comprehensive approach to managing hemophilia, utilizing the latest therapies to prevent and treat bleeding episodes. The primary goal of treatment is to replace the missing clotting factors and manage symptoms effectively.

1. Clotting Factor Replacement Therapy:

1. • This is the mainstay treatment for hemophilia. Patients receive intravenous infusions of Factor VIII or Factor IX concentrates, depending on their type of hemophilia. Regular prophylactic infusions can prevent bleeding episodes and minimize joint damage.
   • Emicizumab is a newer treatment option for hemophilia A, providing a long-acting substitute for Factor VIII.

2. Desmopressin (DDAVP):

1. • For mild hemophilia A, Desmopressin can be used to temporarily increase the levels of Factor VIII in the blood, reducing the risk of bleeding.

3. Antifibrinolytic Medications:

1. • Drugs like tranexamic acid and aminocaproic acid help stabilize blood clots and are often used before surgeries or dental procedures to reduce bleeding risks.

4. Physical Therapy:

1. • Joint bleeding can lead to chronic pain and limited mobility. Physical therapy helps maintain joint function and mobility, reducing long-term complications.

5. Gene Therapy:

1. • This emerging treatment option aims to correct the underlying genetic defect by introducing a functional version of the clotting factor gene. Although still under research, gene therapy holds promise for a potential cure.