Initially a simple blood test will show that the clotting system isn’t working properly.
Diagnosis
Many cases present with extensive bruising on the body, usually the limbs or trunk. This is often out of proportion to any knocks or injuries received. The bruises may be very large, extending over the length of an arm or leg. They may look alarming but they will fade with time. There may be bleeding into a muscle, which can be painful and cause a temporary loss of movement.
Occasionally acquired haemophilia may present as prolonged bleeding after surgery or as blood in the urine or from the bowels.
Initially a simple blood test will show that the clotting system is not working properly. Further specialised blood tests are usually needed to make the final diagnosis. These are usually performed in a specialised hospital laboratory attached to a haemophilia centre. These tests include a factor VIII level and an inhibitor level.
