Which pathway includes factors I, II, V, X, and XIII?

The common pathway in the coagulation cascade is the section where both the intrinsic and extrinsic pathways converge. Factors I (fibrinogen), II (prothrombin), V (proaccelerin), X (Stuart-Prower factor), and XIII (fibrin-stabilizing factor) are all crucial components of this common pathway.

Factor I, also known as fibrinogen, is converted into fibrin, which forms the mesh that stabilizes the clot. Factor II, prothrombin, is converted to thrombin, which is essential for converting fibrinogen to fibrin. Factor V acts as a cofactor in the conversion of prothrombin to thrombin. Factor X is activated to Xa, leading to the production of thrombin. Finally, Factor XIII aids in cross-linking the fibrin strands, thereby stabilizing the clot.

The intrinsic and extrinsic pathways initiate the coagulation process, but it is the common pathway that ultimately leads to the formation of the stable fibrin clot. This is why factors I, II, V, X, and XIII are grouped within the common pathway, making it a critical component of the hemostatic process.