Hemophilia A

Systematic screening of forty-seven haemophiliacs in Sheffield revealed abnormal liver-function tests in thirty-six (77%), with a tendency for these abnormalities to persist. To assess the importance of these abnormalities, percutaneous liver biopsy was carried out on eight symptom-free patients under factor-VIII cover. A wide spectrum of chronic liver disease was demonstrated, including chronic aggressive hepatitis and cirrhosis. The liver pathology bore no relation to clinical history or to biochemical findings.

Thrombocytopenia of the type found in idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura is described in a family with a deficiency of antihaemophilic factor, and a capillary abnormality. The propositus (father) has thrombocytopenia and abnormal platelet morphology, together with a plasma deficiency of antihaemophilic factor, but normal capillaries. His two daughters each are deficient in antihaemophilic factor with normal platelets but abnormal capillaries.

Peter Singer's recent appointment to Princeton University created considerable controversy, most of it focused on his proposal for active euthanasia of disabled infants. Singer articulates utilitarian ideas that often appear in public discussions of euthanasia. Drawing on Pope John Paul II's work on ethics and suffering, I argue that Singer's utilitarian theory of value is impoverished. After introducing the Pope's ethic based on the imago dei, I discuss love as self-gift.

BACKGROUND: In 1975, a national network of hemophilia treatment centers (HTCs) was created to increase access to healthcare services for individuals with hemophilia. Studies demonstrate that care in HTCs improves outcomes and reduces costs. PURPOSE: The objective of the study was to assess the association of demographic, insurance, and clinical characteristics with self-reported barriers to HTC utilization. METHODS: Data were collected from six HTCs from 2005 through 2007. Adult participants and parents of children aged <18 years were interviewed.