Acquired factor VIII inhibitors in oncohematology: a systematic review.

Acquired hemophilia A is an uncommon but potentially life-threatening hemorrhagic disorder caused by the onset of autoantibodies against coagulation factor VIII. Acquired hemophilia A is most frequently associated with autoimmune diseases, neoplasia, pregnancy and drug reactions but in approximately 50% of the cases no underlying disorder can be identified. A prompt diagnosis of this acquired bleeding disorder is essential for the appropriate management which is aimed to the control of hemorrhage and the suppression of inhibitor. Based on electronic and hand searches of the published literature, this systematic review examines the current knowledge on factor VIII autoantibodies associated with oncohematological disorders. © 2008 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.