Liver dysfunction in patients with hemophilia A, B, and von Willebrand's disease.

Overview

Ninety-five patients with Hemophilia A, B and von Willebrand's disease followed over a three year period were evaluated for liver disease. Half of the patients were treated episodically and half received additional prophylactic treatment. Fifty-five per cent have significant transaminitis (elevated SGOT-SGPT), 42 per cent have biochemical evidence of chronic active liver disease and two per cent have subacute and active cirrhosis. There is an annual attack rate of Hepatitis B disease of 3.5 per cent and Hepatitis B antibody titres are present in 84 per cent. This asymptomatic liver disease requires close monitoring for clinical significance.