Protein S Deficiency Presenting as Severe Peripheral Arterial Insufficiency

ABSTRACT

Among the numerous conditions that can lead to a hypercoagulable state, protein C and S deficiencies have been frequently described. Although protein C and S deficiencies have frequently been associated with venous thromboembolic events, instances of arterial thromboses have been reported, especially in young patients. The exact incidence of protein C and S deficiencies in patients with peripheral arterial insufficiency has not been established. Given the paucity of adequate studies to define the natural history and arteriographic findings of these patients, treatment has not been well delineated. We report a young female patient who presented with severe peripheral arterial insufficiency and underwent an unusual clinical course associated with protein S deficiency.