Willebrand disease

Von Willebrand disease is the most common congenital bleeding disorder. The cause is a genetic mutation that results in reduced quantity or impaired function of the von Willebrand factor, which plays a crucial role in the blood clotting process. Its prevalence in the population is estimated to be around 1%. Bleeding manifestations vary in intensity, generally mild, and most affected individuals do not seek medical attention. The disease is named after the Finnish physician Erik von Willebrand, who first described the hereditary bleeding disorder in 1924 in families on the Åland Islands.

Treatment:
Treatment is usually not necessary. Administration of von Willebrand factor as a concentrated injectable form is possible, though expensive, and is mainly used temporarily before surgical procedures. Desmopressin may also be used to increase factor levels. Preventing severe injuries is important, and high-risk activities such as adrenaline sports are not recommended.

• Easy formation of hematomas (bruises)
• Epistaxis (nosebleeds), with the possibility of blood entering the canal connecting the nasal cavity to the eyes (nasolacrimal duct), which can cause "bloody tears"
• Bleeding from the gums
• Heavier menstrual bleeding in women
• Stronger bleeding during childbirth
• Early bleeding after injuries and surgeries
• Gastrointestinal bleeding
• Often also blood in stool or urine
• Bleeding into joints and muscles in severe forms