Von Willebrand Disease
Von Willebrand Disease (pronunciation: von-vil-uh-brand) is a genetic disorder that prevents the blood from clotting properly. It is named after the Finnish physician Erik von Willebrand, who first described the condition in the 1920s.
Etymology
The disease is named after Erik von Willebrand, a Finnish physician who first described the condition in 1926. The term "disease" comes from the Old French desaise, meaning lack of ease.
Definition
Von Willebrand Disease is a bleeding disorder caused by a deficiency or dysfunction of a blood clotting protein called von Willebrand factor (VWF). This protein is necessary for platelet adhesion, which is the first step in the process of blood clotting.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of Von Willebrand Disease include easy bruising, long-lasting nosebleeds, bleeding gums, blood in the urine or stool, and in women, heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding.
Types
There are three types of Von Willebrand Disease: Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3. Type 1 is the mildest and most common form, while Type 3 is the most severe and rarest form.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of Von Willebrand Disease involves blood tests to measure the amount of von Willebrand factor in the blood and its functionality. Genetic testing may also be performed.
Treatment
Treatment for Von Willebrand Disease may include medications to increase the level of von Willebrand factor in the blood, replacement therapies, and in some cases, surgical procedures.
Related Terms
- Hemophilia: Another type of bleeding disorder, but caused by a lack of clotting factor VIII or IX.
- Platelets: Small blood cells that help the body form clots to stop bleeding.
- Coagulation: The process by which blood changes from a liquid to a gel, forming a clot.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Von Willebrand Disease
- Wikipedia's article - Von Willebrand Disease
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