Use of human protein C concentrates in the treatment of patients with severe congenital protein C deficiency

Review

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Authors: Sabine Kroiss, Manuela Albisetti

Published Date March 2010 Volume 2010:4 Pages 51 - 60

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.2147/BTT.S3014

Sabine Kroiss, Manuela Albisetti

Division of Hematology, University Children’s Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland

Abstract: Protein C is one of the major inhibitors of the coagulation system that downregulate thrombin generation. Severe congenital protein C deficiency leads to a hypercoagulability state that usually presents at birth with purpura fulminans and/or severe venous and arterial thrombosis. Recurrent thrombotic events are commonly seen. From the 1990’s, several virus-inactivated human protein C concentrates have been developed. These concentrates currently constitute the therapy of choice for the treatment and prevention of clinical manifestations of severe congenital protein C deficiency. This review summarizes the available information on the use of human protein C concentrates in patients with severe congenital protein C deficiency.

Keywords: Congenital protein C deficiency, protein C concentrate, purpura fulminans