Antithrombin III Deficiency
Antithrombin III (abbreviated to AT III, or simply AT) is a small protein molecule which contributes towards regulating the coagulation of the blood. A deficiency of AT III causes the blood to clot incessantly (thrombophilia) within the blood vessels.
The condition can be either acquired or inherited. Acquired AT III deficiency is usually caused by an underlying illness, or a significant disruption to the body, often in the form of major surgery. Conversely, inherited AT III is attributed to a rare genetic disorder, with an incidence rate estimated at approximately 1:5000.
Since excessively clotting of the blood can cause myriad problems throughout the entire body, patients are usually treated with anticoagulants, or in some cases, a solution containing concentrated AT III.
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