National Center for Advancing and Translational Sciences Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center, a program of the National Center for Advancing and Translational Sciences

Factor V deficiency

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I would like information on factor V deficiency, including treatment and the location of treatment centers.

The following information may help to address your question:


What is factor V deficiency?

Factor V deficiency is an inherited bleeding disorder that prevents blood clots from forming properly.[1] This disorder is caused by mutations in the F5 gene, which leads to a deficiency of a protein called coagulation factor V.[2] The reduced amount of factor V may lead to nosebleeds, easy bruising, and excessive bleeding following surgery or trauma.[1][2] This condition is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner.[3][2] Treatment includes fresh blood plasma or fresh frozen plasma infusions during bleeding episodes.[1][3] 

This condition should not be confused with Factor V Leiden thrombophilia, a genetic risk factor for blood clots.
Last updated: 7/5/2019

What are the signs and symptoms of factor V deficiency?

The symptoms of factor V deficiency may include:[1][3][2]
  • Bleeding into the skin
  • Excessive bruising
  • Nosebleeds
  • Bleeding of the gums
  • Excessive menstrual bleeding
  • Prolonged or excessive loss of blood with surgery, trauma, or following childbirth
  • Umbilical stump bleeding
  • In severe cases, bleeding into the skull, lungs, or gastrointestinal tract
Last updated: 4/17/2017

What causes factor V deficiency?

Factor V deficiency is caused by mutations in the F5 gene. These mutations prevent the production of a functional factor V protein, or decrease the amount of the protein in the bloodstream. Mutations are present in both copies of the F5 gene in each cell, which prevents blood from clotting normally.[4]
Last updated: 4/17/2017

How is factor V deficiency treated?

Resources state that fresh plasma or fresh frozen plasma infusions will correct the deficiency temporarily and may be administered daily during a bleeding episode or after surgery.[1][3] During severe bleeding episodes, platelet concentrates may be needed.[3] Individuals with factor V deficiency should discuss treatment options with their primary health care provider and a hematologist.
Last updated: 4/17/2017

Are there treatment centers for factor V deficiency in the United States?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists treatment centers for hemophilia, factor V deficiency, and other blood disorders in each state. These centers provide comprehensive health management and prevention services to individuals with blood disorders. Click on the CDC link to view the list of treatment centers.
Last updated: 7/22/2013

We hope this information is helpful. We strongly recommend you discuss this information with your doctor. If you still have questions, please contact us.

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GARD Information Specialist

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  1. Gersten T. Factor V deficiency. MedlinePlus. February 1, 2016; http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000550.htm.
  2. Factor V deficiency. Genetics Home Reference (GHR). May 2013; https://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/condition/factor-v-deficiency.
  3. Factor V. National Hemophilia Foundation. https://www.hemophilia.org/Bleeding-Disorders/Types-of-Bleeding-Disorders/Other-Factor-Deficiencies/Factor-V. Accessed 4/17/2017.
  4. F5 gene. Genetics Home Reference (GHR). May 2013; https://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/gene/F5.