Maternal mutation warning That risk begins before birth

Prof. Dr. Zülfikar stated that a mutation occurring in the mother's youth can lead to hemophilia in the baby, adding that the untreated disease can cause permanent damage.

Prof. Dr. Bülent Zülfikar, President of the Turkish Hemophilia Association and Rector of Istanbul University, stated at the 23rd Turkish Hemophilia Congress that newborn male children should definitely be tested if there is a history of hemophilia in their family.

Emphasizing that early diagnosis in newborns makes the treatment process easier, Zülfikar said, "In 60-65% of cases, if this disease is present in the family, it can also occur in the children. If there is a mutation or gene change in the mother during pregnancy or adolescence, this disease appears in the child. In other words, the baby is born with this disease."

IF THE UMBILICAL CORD BLEEDS LONGER...

Zülfikar noted that if the umbilical cord bleeds longer or heals more slowly after birth, it could be a sign of hemophilia.

Zülfikar pointed out that bleeding from the slightest thing when a baby's teeth are erupting, and bruises caused by friction or tight clothing, can also be signs of the disease, and continued: "Thirdly, bruises may appear in areas where the baby is crawling, or when the mother holds the baby, or when breastfeeding, or if the baby is wearing tight clothing. These bruises are also noticeable on the knees and elbows when the baby crawls. It's important to pay attention to these."

"IF THE DISEASE IS NOT TREATED, IT CAN LEAVE PERMANENT DAMAGE"

Zülfikar stated that there is also a risk of slow wound healing or bleeding when a child is circumcised, and added: "Some families have early circumcision. There is no bleeding in the first 4 hours, that is, there is a slight clot and the bleeding seems to stop.

If we don't know and treat it, if we don't give medication, that slight clot dissipates, and this time the bleeding stops. In the past, there were children from families with hemophilia who died from bleeding after circumcision. Again, in the past, there were those who died on the operating table. Thank God we have passed those stages. We have passed these stages with the correct diagnosis. But families with symptoms need to come and apply to the center. It can be diagnosed with a very simple blood test."

Zülfikar stated that hemophilia is generally congenital, and that it can very rarely be acquired later due to severe infections or accidents.

"TURKEY IS A LEADING COUNTRY IN TREATMENT"

Zülfikar underlined Turkey's success in hemophilia treatment, emphasizing that the country has pioneered, made unique and groundbreaking contributions in this field and holds a leading position in treatment.

He stated that there are ongoing studies aimed at modifying and correcting the defective gene, and warned that early diagnosis always provides better treatment opportunities.

Zülfikar noted that the disease causes significant pain as it progresses, saying, "The blood inside the joint erodes the cartilage. When the cartilage erodes, the bones rub against each other, the shape of the joint and gait are impaired. The severe form results in orthopedic defects and requires orthopedic surgeries. If the disease is not treated, it can leave permanent damage."

Hemophilia is mostly passed from carrier women to their male children. Although very rare, the disease can also be seen in girls.

Maternal mutation warning That risk begins before birth

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