Treatment is aimed at replacing the deficient clotting factor. This is done via infusions of concentrates containing the needed factor. Many patients are on a home infusion program whereby they self-infuse the clotting factor concentrate when they bleed or administer it regularly to prevent bleeding. This ensures prompt treatment, and gives them greater independence and more control over managing their disorder. The costs of treating severe hemophilia are high, sometimes $60,000 to $100,000 per year or more. Prevention, early recognition, and prompt treatment of bleeds can help keep these costs down as well as reduce disability.

Viral Complications of Hemophilia


HIV/AIDS
Prior to 1985 many hemophiliacs became infected with HIV, the virus that causes AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome), through blood products contaminated with the virus. Since that time, commercially prepared blood clotting concentrates have been screened for the presence of HIV and then further treated with other means such as heating and pasteurization to make them free of the virus.

Hepatitis
Most hemophiliacs who received large amounts of blood products were also exposed to hepatitis. Many of these people later developed chronic liver problems. Today, the same screening and viral inactivation methods used to eliminate HIV from the clotting concentrates are also effective against hepatitis.