Short answer · Medically reviewed summary · Last updated: 2026-04-07
TL;DR: Haemophilia, also spelled Hemophilia, is a group of hereditary bleeding disorders primarily referred to as Haemophilia A (Factor VIII deficiency) and Haemophilia B (Factor IX deficiency). While historical terms like "the royal disease" exist, medical professionals currently prefer using the specific type (A or B) and severity level to guide clinical management. What are the primary synonyms and classifications for Haemophilia? The medical term Haemophilia (or Hemophilia in American English) refers to a group of X-linked recessive bleeding disorders.
Haemophilia synonyms
Other names for Haemophilia: synonyms, acronyms and related terms used by doctors and patients.
TL;DR: Haemophilia, also spelled Hemophilia, is a group of hereditary bleeding disorders primarily referred to as Haemophilia A (Factor VIII deficiency) and Haemophilia B (Factor IX deficiency). While historical terms like "the royal disease" exist, medical professionals currently prefer using the specific type (A or B) and severity level to guide clinical management.
What are the primary synonyms and classifications for Haemophilia?
The medical term Haemophilia (or Hemophilia in American English) refers to a group of X-linked recessive bleeding disorders. In clinical practice, the condition is categorized by the specific clotting factor that is missing or defective. Haemophilia A is the most common form, representing approximately 80-85% of cases, while Haemophilia B, historically known as "Christmas disease" after the first patient diagnosed with it, accounts for most other cases. When searching international medical databases, you may encounter these primary classifications:
- Haemophilia A: Congenital factor VIII deficiency.
- Haemophilia B: Congenital factor IX deficiency or Christmas disease.
- Haemophilia C: A distinct, rarer form caused by factor XI deficiency; unlike A and B, it is autosomal recessive and affects both genders equally.
Why does Haemophilia have multiple names and historical labels?
The nomenclature of Haemophilia has evolved alongside our understanding of hematology. In the 19th century, it was famously dubbed "the royal disease" because it affected the descendants of Queen Victoria, who carried the gene. Older medical literature may also refer to it as "bleeder's disease" or "hereditary hemorrhagic diathesis." These names were often descriptive of the symptoms rather than the underlying genetic cause. Today, the medical community relies on precise biochemical classification (ICD-10 codes D66 for A and D67 for B) to ensure accurate treatment, as the replacement therapies for Haemophilia A and B are fundamentally different.
How is the condition identified in global medical systems?
Standardization is vital for patient safety and research. Major health organizations use specific coding systems to identify Haemophilia:
- Orphanet: Uses unique ORPHA codes (ORPHA398 for Haemophilia A and ORPHA399 for Haemophilia B).
- OMIM (Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man): Lists Haemophilia A as #306700 and Haemophilia B as #306900.
- ICD-10/ICD-11: The World Health Organization classifies these under diseases of the blood and blood-forming organs, specifically focusing on the coagulation defect.
Which terminology should patients and caregivers use?
When communicating with your healthcare team, using the specific type (A or B) and the degree of severity (mild, moderate, or severe) is the gold standard. Haemophilia is a lifelong condition, and clarity in your medical records regarding your specific factor deficiency is essential for emergency care. At DiseaseMaps.org, 334 people with Haemophilia have joined our community, often sharing how they use these specific clinical terms to advocate for their care during hospital visits or when consulting new specialists.
Next steps
- Confirm your specific factor deficiency and severity level with your hematologist.
- Carry a medical alert card that specifies your type of Haemophilia and your current factor replacement regimen.
- Connect with the 334 members of the DiseaseMaps community to share experiences on managing different forms of the condition.
- Consult the World Federation of Hemophilia (WFH) guidelines for the most up-to-date clinical terminology and care standards.
Medical disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment; always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.
References
- Orphanet: Portal for rare diseases and orphan drugs (orpha.net).
- NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD).
- Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM).
- World Federation of Hemophilia (WFH) Guidelines for the Management of Hemophilia.
