What is the inheritance pattern of both hemophilia A and B?

Hemophilia A and B both follow an X-linked recessive inheritance pattern. This means that the genes responsible for these conditions are located on the X chromosome. Because males have one X and one Y chromosome (XY), if they inherit an X chromosome carrying the mutation for hemophilia, they will express the condition. Females, on the other hand, have two X chromosomes (XX), so they would require mutations on both X chromosomes to express the disease. Typically, females who carry the mutation on one X chromosome are considered carriers and may not show symptoms of hemophilia.

In terms of prevalence, hemophilia is more common in males due to this pattern. The mutations leading to hemophilia A involve deficiencies in the clotting factor VIII, while hemophilia B involves deficiencies in factor IX, both of which are crucial for normal blood coagulation.

Autosomal dominant, autosomal recessive, and Y-linked inheritance patterns are not applicable here as neither hemophilia A nor B can be passed on through autosomes or from father to son via the Y chromosome. Understanding the X-linked recessive inheritance is crucial for genetic counseling and managing hemophilia in affected families.