What is von Willebrand factor antigen?
A von Willebrand factor (vWF) antigen test measures the amount of a clotting factor called von Willebrand factor. The body’s clotting factors work together in a special order, almost like pieces of a puzzle. When the last piece is in place, the clot develops.
What does a high von Willebrand antigen mean?
VWF is an acute-phase reactant and may be elevated above baseline in association with a variety of conditions including inflammation, stress, exercise, liver disease, pregnancy or estrogen therapy. Baseline VWF levels also increase with aging.
Is von Willebrand’s autoimmune?
While the more common types of von Willebrand’s disease are inherited, it is also possible to develop the condition from an autoimmune disease such as lupus or cancer, or as a result of taking some medications. This is called acquired von Willebrand’s disease.
What is the normal range for von Willebrand factor antigen?
In the general population, the mean level of plasma VWF is 100 IU per dL, with a normal reference range between 50 and 200 IU per dL. The 5 percent of persons with VWF levels of less than 50 IU per dL include those with VWD and those with slightly low, but nondiagnostic, levels.
What does von Willebrand factor do?
Von Willebrand factor helps platelets stick together and adhere to the walls of blood vessels at the site of a wound. These groups of platelets form temporary clots, plugging holes in blood vessel walls to help stop bleeding.
Can you donate blood if you have von Willebrand disease?
But I have von Willebrand Disease (VWD), can’t I donate blood? Some blood collection centers will accept donations from people with VWD who have never had a major bleed or required treatment for their VWD. Call first and talk to a donation counselor.
Does von Willebrand make you tired?
The weakening, fatigue and other disruptive effects of VWD can be stopped. Even childbirth can be made safe for a mother and baby. If you have unexplained bleeding symptoms, remember to ask your doctor, “Could I have von Willebrand disease?”
What happens if you have von Willebrand disease?
If you have von Willebrand disease, you might have: Excessive bleeding from an injury or after surgery or dental work. Frequent nosebleeds that don’t stop within 10 minutes. Heavy or long menstrual bleeding.
How does von Willebrand disease affect blood clotting?
Von Willebrand factor acts like glue to help the platelets stick together and form a blood clot. Von Willebrand factor also carries with it clotting factor VIII (8), another important protein that helps your blood clot. Factor VIII is the protein that is inactive or missing in hemophilia, another clotting disorder.
What does a von Willebrand antigen test show?
What It Is. A von Willebrand factor (vWF) antigen test measures the quantity of a protein called von Willebrand factor that helps blood to clot. A clot is a lump of blood that the body produces to prevent excessive bleeding by sealing leaks in blood vessels caused by wounds, cuts, scratches, and other conditions.
How does factor VIII work in von Willebrand disease?
Factor VIII in its inactive state binds to VWF in the circulation. If it is unbound, it rapidly degrades. When VWF is exposed in endothelium during an injury to blood vessel, it binds to collagen. When coagulation is stimulated, the platelet receptors get activated.
How are birth control pills used to treat von Willebrand disease?
These medicines are injected into a vein in the arm to replace the missing factor in the blood. These drugs (for example, Amicar®, Lysteda®) are either injected or taken orally to help slow or prevent the breakdown of blood clots. Birth control pills can increase the levels of VWF and factor VIII in the blood and reduce menstrual blood loss.