Types  of Bleeding Disorders

Coagulation is a complex process by which blood forms clots. Disorders of coagulation can lead to an increased risk of bleeding (hemorrhage) and/or clotting (thrombosis). Bleeding disorders can be acquired or inherited.

The best known coagulation factor disorders are the hemophilias. The three main forms are Hemophilia A (Factor VIII deficiency), Hemophilia B (Factor IX deficiency or "Christmas disease") and Hemophilia C (Factor XI deficiency). Together with Von Willebrand disease, these conditions predispose to bleeding and bruising. Most hemophilias are inherited and occur mainly in males, while Von Willebrand disease can occur in both males and females.