Acute hemophilic hemarthrosis: is local cryotherapy recommended?

ABSTRACT

Introduction: The management of acute hemophilic hemarthrosis (AHH) classically has consisted of factor replacement therapy and RICE (rest, ice, compression and elevation). However, there is still a controversy in the literature regarding the role of local cryotherapy (LC) in AHH.

Areas covered: The aim of this article is to review the potential role of LC in AHH.

Expert commentary: Some authors have reported that LC attenuates joint inflammation and has a positive influence on controlling articular swelling and temperature. However, other authors have stated that low temperature is associated with impairment of coagulation enzyme activity and platelet function. Although some reports have mentioned the benefits of LC in AHH and other have mentioned its adverse events, the data on the topic are still scant and preliminary. Literature of LC in the management of AHH is controversial. Whilst LC has always been considered as an unquestionable necessity in the management of AHH, it should be utilized with caution until a randomized study can solve the dilemma.

KEYWORDS:

• Hemophilia
• hemarthrosis
• acute
• cryotherapy
• local

Declaration of interest

The authors have no relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties.

Additional information

Funding

The manuscript was not funded.