Acquired Factor XIII Deficiency in a Patient with Metastatic Lung Cancer

Abstract

Acquired factor XIII (FXIII) deficiency can result in life-long bleeding tendency and can be caused by enhanced consumption, impaired synthesis, or as an immune-mediated process. The latter can be related with solid neoplasms, through neutralizing or non-neutralizing antibodies. The relationship between FXIII activity and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is not well established. This case report is about a patient with NSCLC and acquired FXIII deficiency. Materials and Methods: Clinical records were obtained through the electronic process analysis, and the confidentiality of the patient was always assured. Results and Discussion: A 70-year-old male with no relevant past medical history and a recently diagnosed metastatic NSCLC was admitted for priapism. Five days later, a he developed a bleeding disorder, with slightly elevated coagulation times and normal fibrinogen levels and platelets count. FXIII level was found to be decreased (0.24 IU/mL) and FXIII plasma mixing studies did not confirm the presence of a neutralizing inhibitor. The FXIII level correction with standard plasma mixing studies was in favour of a non-neutralizing antibody. Despite treatment, haemorrhage control was not achieved and the patient died. Conclusion: This clinical report describes a rare case of a patient with metastatic NSCLC presenting a severe haemorrhagic event caused by FXIII deficiency immune-mediated by non-neutralizing antibodies and subsequent increased clearance.