Transient acquired factor X deficiency: report of the use of activated clotting concentrate to control a life-threatening hemorrhage.

Acquired deficiency of factor X is an uncommon occurrence. It has usually developed in association with amyloidosis [8] and, in that setting, it has been irreversible. Transient deficiency appears to be associated with an acute respiratory infection in the majority of cases. Bleeding in these patients can be life-threatening and has been difficult to control. Konyne produces a brief correction of the prothrombin time and an elevation in the factor X level, but has not been effective in stopping bleeding. We report the first successful correction of prothrombin time and clinical resolution of bleeding attending the use of Autoplex T. If bleeding persists after appropriate specific factor replacement and the clinical condition warrants, the use of Autoplex T (activated prothrombin complex) deserves prompt consideration.