Haemophilia amongst the descendants of Queen Victoria.

  • Francois P. Retief
  • Andr� Wessels
  • Johan F.G. Cilliers

Abstract

This study discusses the impact of �Victorian haemophilia� on the royal houses of Europe during the 19th and 20th centuries. Haemophilia as a molecular defect is explained and the clinical picture of the condition is indicated. Applicable therapeutic interventions also receive attention. Next, an historical review is provided of how �Victorian haemophilia� spread from Queen Victoria (British monarch, 1837�1901) via some of her daughters to other members of the British royal family and also to the royal houses of Germany, Russia and Spain. Eleven confirmed cases of haemophilia amongst the descendants of Queen Victoria are mentioned, as well as three other possible cases. The effect of haemophilia on the course of history is also investigated.

Author Biographies

Francois P. Retief
Department of Classical and Near Eastern Studies
Andr� Wessels
Department of History
Johan F.G. Cilliers
Department of Classical and Near Eastern Studies
Published
2013-03-04
How to Cite
Retief, F., Wessels, A., & Cilliers, J. (2013). Haemophilia amongst the descendants of Queen Victoria. Suid-Afrikaans Tydskrif Vir Natuurwetenskap En Tegnologie / <i>South African Journal of Science and Technology</I&gt;, 32(1), 4 bladsye. https://doi.org/10.4102/satnt.v32i1.341
Section
Oorspronklike Navorsing