Levels of coagulation factors and venous thromboembolism

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Altered levels of coagulation factors have been included among the abnormalities that may increase the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in otherwise healthy subjects. INFORMATION SOURCES: According to the studies that have been carried to test this hypothesis only elevated levels of factor VIII and fibrinogen emerged as independent risk factors for VTE. STATE OF THE ART AND PERSPECTIVES: Although some data indicate that elevated levels of factor XI or IX are also determinants for VTE, this awaits confirmation.