Coexistence of factor XI (plasma thromboplastin antecedent) deficiency and Gaucher's disease.

Abstract

The findings of Factor XI (plasma thromboplastin antecedent) deficiency in a patient with Gaucher's disease was investigated. A family study, which included measurements of leukocyte glucocerebrosidase activity and Factor XI levels, revealed that the two genetic disorders segregated independently. One of 12 additional unrelated patients with Gaucher's disease showed a diminished Factor XI level and two of seven unrelated Factor XI-deficient patients showed decreased glucocerebrosidase activity. It is possible that the common occurrence of both genetic disorders results from a high gene frequency of both defects in Ashkenazic Jews.