Acquired isolated factor VII (FVII) deficiency is a rare but important discovery in patients with plasma cell disorders with significant therapeutic and prognostic implications. The present analysis and review of cases reported in the literature is intended to highlight disease-related characteristics associated with this rare clotting defect, clinical manifestations and outcome, and potential underlying mechanisms, and to provide guidance on how to manage these patients in terms of prophylactic and therapeutic measures. The discovery of acquired FVII deficiency in a patient with multiple myeloma (MM) or monoclonal gammopathy of uncertain significance (MGUS) should prompt an evaluation for AL amyloidosis, particularly for amyloid hepatosplenic involvement, whenever not previously documented. Acquired FVII deficiency in patients with MM and AL amyloidosis is frequently associated with severe bleeding diathesis, also related to a number of concomitant predisposing factors, adversely affecting the outcome. The prompt institution of a rapidly acting therapy is crucial to prevent severe bleeding complications and positively impact outcome. Recombinant activated factor VII (rVIIa) may represent a useful supportive care measure, both in treating active bleeding and in the peri-procedural setting. However, further clinical experience is needed to optimize the therapeutic management of this rare disorder.
Keywords: AL amyloidosis; PT prolongation; acquired bleeding disorders; acquired coagulopathy; factor VII deficiency; multiple myeloma; plasma cell disorders; recombinant activated factor VII.