Von Willebrand Disease is a family of congenital bleeding disorders caused by abnormal levels or function of a blood protein, called Von Willebrand Factor (VWF).*eMedicine: Von Willebrand Disease (February 12, 2007)
VWF is an important protein that helps the blood clot, and allows blood platelets stick to damaged blood vessels. VWD is usually a milder and more common disease than the better-known blood disease of hemophilia. KidsHealth: von Willebrand Disease*eMedicine: Von Willebrand Disease (February 12, 2007)
Disclaimer
The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you think you have Von Willebrand Disease, please consult your doctor.
References
Fast Facts
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Fact:
First described in 1926 by the Finnish doctor Erik von WillebrandNational Hemophilia Foundation: What is von Willebrand Disease?
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VWD strikes 3% of the US population, and between .09-1.3% of the world population*eMedicine: Von Willebrand Disease (February 12, 2007)
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Affects males and females equally, and it is not prevalent in any particular ethnic group*eMedicine: Von Willebrand Disease (February 12, 2007)
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Three types of the disease, depending on how well or poorly VWF functions*eMedicine: Von Willebrand Disease (February 12, 2007)
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Symptoms can include abnormal and unexplained bruising, bleeding in the gums, nose, and stomach lining, or excessive bleeding after a tooth is pulled or after circumcisionKidsHealth: von Willebrand Disease
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Primary symptom for women is heavy menstrual bleeding*eMedicine: Von Willebrand Disease (February 12, 2007)
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Often doesn't show up until after childhood*eMedicine: Von Willebrand Disease (February 12, 2007)
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There are medications, such as DDAVP, which can increase the amount of VWF*eMedicine: Von Willebrand Disease (February 12, 2007)
