Alternate Names : Protein S deficiency, Protein C deficiency
Definition
Congenital protein C or S deficiency is a lack of proteins C or S in the fluid part of the blood. The proteins are natural substances that help prevent blood clots.
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Congenital protein C or S deficiency is an inherited disorder, which means it is passed down through families. Congenital means it is present at birth.
The disorder causes abnormal blood clotting.
About 1 out of every 300 people has one normal gene and one faulty gene for protein C deficiency.
Protein S deficiency occurs in about 1 in 20,000 people.
Pictures & Images
Blood clot formation
Blood clotting normally occurs when there is damage to a blood vessel. Platelets immediately begin to adhere to the cut edges of the vessel and release chemicals to attract even more platelets. A platelet plug is formed, and the external bleeding stops.
Next, small molecules, called clotting factors, cause strands of blood-borne materials, called fibrin, to stick together and seal the inside of the wound. Eventually, the cut blood vessel heals and the blood clot dissolves after a few days.
Blood clots
Blood clots (fibrin clots) are the clumps that result when blood coagulates.
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Congenital protein C or S deficiency : Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
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Congenital protein C or S deficiency : Symptoms & Signs, Diagnosis & Tests
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Congenital protein C or S deficiency : Treatment
Review Date : 1/12/2009
Reviewed By : Todd Gersten, M.D., Hematology/Oncology, Palm Beach Cancer Institute, West Palm Beach, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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