General Information About Von Willebrand
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is an inherited bleeding disorder caused by a congenital deficiency or defect in the 'Von Willebrand' protein, which enables blood clotting and helps platelets stick to the injured vessel surface.
Hemophilia is mostly seen in men and causes deep and severe bleeding into the joints/muscles. Von Willebrand, on the other hand, is the world's most common bleeding disorder, seen equally in both women and men; bleeding is mostly seen in mucous membranes (nose, gums, uterus) and on the skin.
Frequent and hard-to-stop nosebleeds, prolonged bleeding of the gums while brushing teeth, large bruises on the skin even from a minor bump, and small cuts (shaving, paper cuts) bleeding for hours.
The disease, especially in women, leads to profound anemia and a decrease in quality of life due to excessively heavy menstrual bleeding lasting more than 7 days (menorrhagia) every month.
A simple blood count (Hemogram) usually comes out completely normal and the disease hides. In case of suspicion, the Hematology specialist makes a definitive diagnosis by measuring Von Willebrand Factor Antigen (vWF:Ag) and factor activity in the blood.
In mild cases, daily treatment is not required; only bleeding-stopping treatment (Tranexamic acid, etc.) is taken before minor surgery or tooth extraction. In more pronounced cases, Desmopressin (DDAVP) can be given via nasal spray or intravenously. In very severe types, Factor Concentrate (serum) is applied directly.
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
