Factor V Leiden mutation and acquired activated protein C resistance in Indian women with recurrent fetal loss

Objectives: To study the prevalence and association of factor V Leiden (FVL) mutation and acquired APC resistance (APCR) in women with recurrent fetal loss (RFL). Patients and Methods: Fifty women with two or more RFLs and 50 age-matched controls with no history of fetal loss and at least one live birth were included in the study. Complete blood counts and screening tests for coagulation (PT, APTT), APCR, and FVL (PCR) were done in all women. Results: Age of the patients ranged from 20–42 years with a mean ± SD of 27.4 ± 4.8 years. Prolonged PT and APTT were observed in 2% and 8% cases, respectively. None of the controls had prolonged PT/APTT. APCR was observed in 8% cases and 2% controls. The prevalence of APCR was higher in women with first-trimester fetal loss (24.2%) as compared to women with the second trimester (13.3%) fetal loss. FVL was not observed in any of the cases or controls. Conclusion: This study indicates that FVL mutation is not associated with RFL in the Indian population while APCR is observed in Indian women with RFL.