What is von Willebrand disease?

Von Willebrand disease is a blood clotting disorder that results from a deficiency or dysfunction of von Willebrand factor, a protein that is crucial for platelet adhesion and blood clotting. This condition can lead to excessive bleeding and difficulty in forming clots after an injury or surgery due to the impaired ability of platelets to stick together and to the blood vessel wall.

Individuals with von Willebrand disease may experience symptoms such as easy bruising, frequent nosebleeds, and heavy menstrual bleeding. Understanding this condition is essential for effective management and treatment, which often involves therapies that help to increase the levels or functionality of von Willebrand factor in the blood. Because of its direct relation to the blood coagulation process, categorizing von Willebrand disease as a blood clotting disorder provides clarity about its pathophysiology and the clinical challenges it presents.