Blood and immunity mnemonic

Vitamin K dependent clotting factors

The mnemonic

1972 and C, S

What each word stands for

  • 1Factor X (10)
  • 9Factor IX
  • 7Factor VII
  • 2Factor II (prothrombin)
  • C, SProteins C and S, the natural anticoagulants

Why it matters clinically

Explains why warfarin prolongs PT early and causes early skin necrosis via protein C.

Where it stops being reliable

It does not cover factor VIII, XI or other factors, which are not vitamin K dependent.

Teaching aid, still awaiting independent review. Confirm facts in a standard source.

More mnemonics

Common questions

What is the Blood and immunity mnemonic?

1972 and C, S. It helps you recall: Vitamin K dependent clotting factors.

What does "1" stand for?

Factor X (10)

What does "9" stand for?

Factor IX

What does "7" stand for?

Factor VII

What are all the parts of the 1972 and C, S mnemonic?

1: Factor X (10); 9: Factor IX; 7: Factor VII; 2: Factor II (prothrombin); C, S: Proteins C and S, the natural anticoagulants.

Which topic does this mnemonic belong to?

It belongs to Blood and immunity in Physiology.

Where does this mnemonic stop being reliable?

It does not cover factor VIII, XI or other factors, which are not vitamin K dependent.

How is this useful clinically?

Explains why warfarin prolongs PT early and causes early skin necrosis via protein C.

How do I make this mnemonic stick?

Say it aloud, write it from memory tomorrow, then again in a week. Then test yourself on a Physiology question about Blood and immunity.

Is this a standard mnemonic?

It is a teaching aid written or adapted by our team. Some resemble ones students share informally. Check any fact that matters in a standard source.