Resistance to activated protein C due to factor V Leiden mutation: high prevalence in patients with post-thrombotic leg ulcers

BACKGROUND: Activated protein C (APC) resistance is the most frequently diagnosed heritable thrombophilic defect predisposing to thrombosis. OBJECTIVES: To determine the prevalence of APC resistance due to factor V Leiden mutation in patients with leg ulcers. METHODS: Within a 2-year-period 100 consecutive patients with leg ulcers were examined for factor V Leiden mutation. RESULTS: APC resistance due to factor V Leiden mutation was detected in 19 of 53 patients (36%) with post-thrombotic leg ulcers and in three of 47 patients (6%) with ulcers caused by primary varicosis. In a healthy control group APC resistance due to factor V Leiden mutation was found in five of 96 (5%) volunteers. CONCLUSIONS: In view of this high prevalence of APC resistance of 36%, which has never previously been reported, patients with post-thrombotic leg ulcers should be investigated for APC resistance.