[1] Introduction
Factor XIII (FXIII) deficiency is an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by a deficiency in FXIII, the final enzyme in the clotting pathway. FXIII is responsible for catalyzing the cross-linking between fibrin molecules, converting the fibrin polymer into a stable, organized, cross-linked structure that is relatively resistant to fibrinolysis [1-5].
In the pediatric age group, this deficiency can manifest as abnormal bleeding from the umbilical stump, soft tissue and subcutaneous bleeding, intracerebral hemorrhages, intraoral bleeding, and poor wound healing. This case report details a unique presentation of FXIII deficiency at our hospital, which was ultimately diagnosed as a large duodenal hematoma [2]. Duodenal hematomas are themselves rare, mostly caused by blunt abdominal trauma. Less frequently, they are associated with bleeding disorders, as in this case, or complications of anticoagulation therapy or endoscopy [6-9].
We present the case of a 3-year-old female who presented to the emergency room (ER) with abdominal pain and vomiting. This case report outlines the clinical presentation, radiological findings, and non-surgical management of the patient.