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Von Willebrand disease
Treatment: Medications such as desamino-8-arginine vasopressin (DDAVP) can be given to raise the levels of von Willebrand factor, which will reduce the tendency toward bleeding. Blood plasma or certain factor VIII preparations may also be used to decrease bleeding. Text Continues Below Some types of von Willebrand disease do not respond to DDAVP. Tests should be done to determine a patient's specific type of von Willebrand disease, before trauma or surgery occurs. A trial of DDAVP can be done prior to surgery to test whether von Willebrand factor levels increase. Expectations (prognosis): Women who have this condition generally do not experience excessive bleeding during childbirth. Since this disease is inherited, genetic counseling may be recommended for parents. Complications: Post-operative hemorrhage (bleeding) may occur. If you have von Willebrand disease, do not take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin or ibuprofen without talking to your health care provider. Calling your health care provider: Call your health care provider if bleeding occurs without reason. If you have von Willebrand disease and are scheduled for surgery or are in an accident, be sure you or your family notify the health care providers about your condition. References: Kumar V, Abbas AK, Fausto N. Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease. 7th ed. St. Louis, Mo: WB Saunders; 2005:654-655. Page:  1 | 2 | Next >>