Which factor is referred to as the Christmas factor?

The Christmas factor refers specifically to Factor IX. This designation originates from the case of a patient named Stephen Christmas, who was the first identified person with a deficiency of this particular clotting factor, leading to the condition now known as hemophilia B. Factor IX plays a crucial role in the coagulation cascade; its deficiency results in a bleeding disorder that is genetically inherited. This factor is essential for the body to form clots effectively, and its absence can lead to prolonged bleeding episodes, making it critical for proper hemostasis. Understanding the significance of the Christmas factor helps differentiate between various hemophilia types and highlights the importance of clotting factors in the coagulation process.