von+willebrand+disease


 * Von Willebrand disease: **


 * Description: **

Von Willebrand disease is a genetically inherited disease that affects the afflicted blood’s ability to clot together known as the Von Willebrand factor. Having a low Von Willebrand factor prevents blood from clotting normally. It is most commonly found in humans but has also been observed in a number of other animals including dogs, pigs, and horses. Although most commonly known as a genetically inherited disease, Von Willebrand Disease can be contracted though means of other medical illnesses. The disease got its name from Erik Adolf von Willebrand, the Finnish pediatrician that first recorded the illness in 1926.

There is no known cure for Von Willebrand Disease, however there are a number of treatments that a patient can receive to help alleviate their symptoms particularly before a major surgery. Typically, a person suffering from Von Willebrand Disease will receive special transfusion containing factors allowing their blood to clot for a short time. Another option is to receive a blood transfusion before surgery.


 * Symptoms: **


 * Random and prolonged nosebleeds
 * Bleeding from the gums after brushing teeth
 * Prolonged bleeding from a minor cut or injury
 * Easy and prolonged bruising


 * Related terminology: **


 * Bernard–Soulier syndrome**
 * Hematology**
 * Von Willebrand factor**


 * Citations/references: **

"Von Willebrand Disease." Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation, 27 Oct. 2014. Web. 29 Oct. 2014. "Von Willebrand Disease: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia." U.S National Library of Medicine. U.S. National Library of Medicine. Web. 29 Oct. 2014. "Von Willebrand Disease." Definition. Web. 29 Oct. 2014.


 * Graphics: **