Social and Ethical Controversies in Thrombophilia Testing and Update on Genetic Risk Factors for Venous Thromboembolism

ABSTRACT

Over the past 20 years, the landscape with respect to evaluation of thrombophilia, the inherited or acquired tendency to develop venous thromboembolism, has changed dramatically. Increased knowledge regarding the contribution of genetic predisposition to thrombosis has raised several questions regarding screening, diagnosis, and management. In this review, we will examine these issues while providing an update on genetic testing for inherited thrombotic disorders.

KEYWORDS

Thrombophilia - thrombosis - factor V Leiden - prothrombin - genetic testing

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