Factor VII levels as a guide to prognosis in fulminant hepatic failure.

Levels of clotting factors II, V, and VII were measured on admission and then daily in 12 patients with grade IV hepatic coma due to fulminant hepatic failure. Factor VII levels obtained within 36 hours of the development of grade IV coma were not of value in predicting which patients would subsequently recover consciousness. Four of the latter group had levels below 9% at this time while the levels in three of the seven fatal cases were higher. Serial determinations were of more value and levels rose rapidly in those patients who ultimately made a complete recovery.