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Von Willebrand's Disease
Definition Von Willebrand's disease is a hereditary bleeding disorder caused by a deficiency of von Willebrand factor. Von Willebrand factor helps platelets to stick to the blood vessel wall and to each other, which is necessary for normal blood clotting.
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Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Von Willebrand's disease is the most common hereditary bleeding disorder. It affects both sexes approximately equally. Most cases are mild, and bleeding may occur after a surgical procedure or tooth extraction. The condition is worsened by the use of aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Bleeding may decrease during pregnancy.
The disease is very common, affecting at least 1% of the population. There are no racial or ethnic associations with this disorder. A family history of a bleeding disorder is the primary risk factor.
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• Definition
• Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
• Symptoms & Signs
• Diagnosis & Tests
• Treatment
• Prognosis
• Complications
• Calling Your Health Care Provider
• Pictures & Images
Topics that might be of interest to you Diseases & Conditions
• Bleeding Disorders
Tests & Exams
• Bleeding Time
• Factor VIII Assay
• Platelet Aggregation Test
• Platelet Count
Other Topics
• Bleeding
• Bleeding Gums
• Bleeding Into the Skin
• Nosebleed Injury
• Rashes
Review Date : 6/5/2003
Reviewed By : Ezra E. W. Cohen, M.D., Section of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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