Definition & Meaning of "hemophilia"

What is "hemophilia"?

Hemophilia is a rare genetic disorder that affects the blood's ability to clot properly. It is typically characterized by prolonged bleeding after injury or surgery, sudden bleeding into joints and muscles, and easy bruising. Hemophilia is caused by changes in genes that produce proteins called clotting factors, which are essential for blood clotting. Treatment for hemophilia usually involves replacing the missing clotting factor through injections of concentrated clotting factor products.