Short answer · Medically reviewed summary · Last updated: 2026-05-08
Factor XIII Deficiency is a hereditary condition that is almost exclusively inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, meaning both parents must carry a gene mutation to pass it to their child. While rare acquired forms exist, the congenital form of Factor XIII Deficiency is strictly genetic, resulting from mutations in the F13A1 or F13B genes. How is Factor XIII Deficiency inherited? Congenital Factor XIII Deficiency is an autosomal recessive disorder.
Is Factor XIII Deficiency hereditary?
Is Factor XIII Deficiency hereditary? The genetic component explained in plain language, reviewed against medical sources, with patient experiences.
Factor XIII Deficiency is a hereditary condition that is almost exclusively inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, meaning both parents must carry a gene mutation to pass it to their child. While rare acquired forms exist, the congenital form of Factor XIII Deficiency is strictly genetic, resulting from mutations in the F13A1 or F13B genes.
How is Factor XIII Deficiency inherited?
Congenital Factor XIII Deficiency is an autosomal recessive disorder. This means that an affected individual must inherit two copies of the mutated gene—one from each parent. Parents of an affected child are typically asymptomatic carriers, each possessing one functional gene and one mutated gene. In the DiseaseMaps.org community, where five members have shared their experiences with Factor XIII Deficiency, understanding this inheritance pattern is crucial for family planning.
What are the risks for siblings and children?
Because Factor XIII Deficiency follows an autosomal recessive inheritance pattern, the risks for family members are as follows:
- Siblings: Each sibling of an affected individual has a 25% chance of inheriting the condition, a 50% chance of being an asymptomatic carrier, and a 25% chance of not inheriting the mutation.
- Offspring: If one parent has Factor XIII Deficiency and the other is a carrier, there is a 50% chance their child will be affected.
- De novo mutations: Spontaneous (de novo) mutations are extremely rare in Factor XIII Deficiency; nearly all cases are inherited from parents.
Is genetic testing recommended for families?
Genetic testing is the gold standard for confirming a diagnosis of Factor XIII Deficiency. It is recommended for symptomatic individuals and for family members of those already diagnosed to identify carrier status. Genetic counseling is highly advised to help families understand these recurrence risks, navigate reproductive options, and discuss prenatal diagnostic testing if desired.
Next steps
- Consult with a hematologist or a clinical geneticist to discuss confirmatory molecular testing.
- Connect with others at DiseaseMaps.org to share experiences and find emotional support within the Factor XIII Deficiency community.
- Request a referral to a genetic counselor to map out family inheritance risks before pregnancy.
Medical disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
References
- NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD): Factor XIII Deficiency
- Orphanet: Congenital Factor XIII Deficiency
- OMIM (Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man): Factor XIII Deficiency
- World Federation of Hemophilia (WFH) Guidelines on Rare Bleeding Disorders
