Definition

von Willebrand disease (vWD) has traditionally remained the most common inherited coagulation diathesis. von Willebrand factor (vWF) VIII is a heterogeneous multinumeric glycoprotein that serves two main functions: to facilitate platelet adhesion and to behave as a plasma carrier for factor VIII:C of the coagulation cascade. vWF is synthesized in the endothelial cells and in megakaryocytes. An acquired form of vWD:VIII is seen with lymphomyeloproliferative or immunologic disease states secondary to antibodies against vWF:VIII.