An Unusual Cause of Refractory Bleeding in Cirrhosis

Abstract

Acquired hemophilia A (AHA) is a rare bleeding disorder caused by the development of antibodies against factor VIII. AHA has previously been reported in association with malignancy and autoimmune disorders, but rarely with liver disease. A prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time is the initial laboratory manifestation of this condition but may be challenging to interpret in the setting of abnormal markers of coagulation typically seen in cirrhosis. We present a case of AHA in a patient with decompensated cirrhosis resulting in refractory bleeding and highlight the complexities of interpreting abnormal coagulation factors in patients with cirrhosis.

Keywords: acquired inhibitor; cirrhosis; gastrointestinal bleeding.