Protein C Deficiency: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Warfarin-induced necrosis

A rare and painful condition found in approximately 1 out of 10,000 patients starting treatment with the blood-thinning drug warfarin.

Blood clots cause cells in the breasts, buttocks, thighs, or torso to die. Bleeding in these areas turns them purplish-blue and causes swelling, serious pain, and gangrene.

Treatment calls for stopping warfarin and providing heparin, vitamin K, and protein C concentrate. Surgery is frequently required for healing

When to see a doctor

Heart attacks and strokes are well-known killers, but DVTs kills thousands around the world each year, according to theInternational Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis.

This means that every blood clot is a potential medical emergency. People should seek medical help immediately if any of the following symptoms appear:

• Cramp, pain, or tenderness in arms or legs
• Red or purple color
• Swelling
• Warmth in the painful area

Statistics from the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis show 1 out of every 4 pulmonary embolisms is fatal. People should seek emergency medical help if any of these symptoms develop:

• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Rapid heart beat
• Fainting
• Coughing up blood

Diagnosis of protein C deficiency

A blood test is the only way to make sure an individual has protein C deficiency. However, some conditions, such as warfarin treatment, can cause a temporary drop in protein C.

Repeat testing may be needed. People should wait at least 14 days after using warfarin to get an accurate test. Testing family members can help confirm that the condition is hereditary.

Clots can also be diagnosed incorrectly.

Treatment and outlook

People with protein C deficiency may want to do more. One possible step is to stop estrogen therapy and avoid contraceptives with estrogen and progestin.Taking action to prevent clots is a good idea for everyone, even those without protein C deficiency. Simple steps include losing weight, stopping smoking, and staying active.

If someone has a family member who is diagnosed with protein C deficiency, they should consider getting tested themselves.

People should tell officials about their protein C deficiency before surgery, pregnancy, long flights, and other situations where movement will be restricted.

Doctors might suggest long-term treatment with blood-thinning medication for people with hereditary protein C deficiency who have had blood clots. For those who haven't had clots, blood thinners are usually recommended only when they're at increased risk of blood clots. Such times include:

• After surgery
• When using a catheter
• During long periods without movement

A manufactured protein C concentrate may be used at these times. This can reduce the dosage of blood thinners prescribed for long-term users.