Use of recombinant factor VII in Hepatology

Understanding the key role of factor VII (FVII) in the cascade of blood coa gulation has led to consider its administration as an effective treatment f or selected situations with altered haemostasis. Advances in genetic engine ering have made it possible to obtain this factor by recombinant techniques (rFVII), rendering it both safe and widely available as a haemostatic trea tment. So far, it has been commonly used for haemophilic patients with inhi biting antibodies against factors FVIII-FIX, but its use is currently exten ding to other areas. The presence of decreased FVII levels in patients with advanced, chronic liver disease has recently raised an interest in the stu dy of this molecule as a new therapeutic option in the field of Hepatology. This paper will discuss the characteristics, indications, and studies exis ting to this day on the use of rFVII, particularly in cirrhotic patients.