VON WILLEBRAND DISEASE

Course overview

Von Willebrand disease (vWD) is a group of chronic bleeding disorders characterized by a deficiency in or defective functioning of von Willebrand factor (vWF), a glycoprotein that carries factor VIII (FVIII) and promotes platelet adherence to endothelial surfaces to form clots. Except for a few individuals with acquired forms of vWD, most individuals with vWD have a lifelong tendency toward easy bruising, frequent epistaxis, and menorrhagia (i.e., excessive menstrual bleeding). This continuing education module is designed to give the reader/learner an increased understanding of vWD, including its clinical presentation, symptoms, and treatment, and to aid in caring for the patient with this diagnosis. Readers may explore any or all of the topics. One contact hour of continuing education credit is available for those who successfully complete the post-test and evaluation form.