Increased prevalence of APC resistance (factor V Leiden mutation) in patients with post-thrombotic syndrome

Background and Objective. APC resistance (Factor V Leiden mutation) is the most often diagnosed hereditary thrombolytic defect. Data about the prevale nce in patients with leg ulcers, especially postthrombosis, are limited of this defect. Patients/Methods. APC resistance was determined in 100 patients with venous leg ulcers. 53 patients had ulcers caused by postthrombotic syndrome and 4 7 patients ulcers associated with primary varicosities. A control group of 96 healthy volunteers was also studied. Results. 19 of 53 patients (36%) with postthrombotic ulcers and 3 of 47 pat ients (6%) with varicositity-related ulcers had APC resistance, In the cont rol group APC resistance was detected in 5 of 96 volunteers(5%). Conclusions. APC resistance should be considered as a risk factor for the d evelopment of venous leg ulcers.