A Practical Approach to Testing for von Willebrand Disease
Archives
February 2007
von Willebrand disease (vWD) is the most commonly diagnosed congenital bleeding disorder. The laboratory diagnosis of type 2 variants and type 3 vWD is reasonably well defined, and characterization of the von Willebrand factor (vWF) gene has facilitated definition of their molecular basis. However, for type 1 vWD, the laboratory diagnosis poses a diagnostic dilemma, and knowledge of its molecular basis is evolving. Characterization of the vWF gene and refinement of genetic techniques have led to an evolving repertoire of genetic tests. Genetic testing is costly, and thus judicious use will be increasingly important for appropriate genetic counseling of patients with vWD and their family members. This article provides a practical approach to utilization of genetic testing in vWD.
Related Tests
- #554 Coagulation Consultation, von Willebrand Disease, Plasma
- #9051 von Willebrand Factor Antigen, Plasma
- #9046 Ristocetin Cofactor, Plasma
- #9070 Coagulation Factor VIII Activity Assay, Plasma
- #8844 von Willebrand Factor Multimer Analysis, Plasma
- #81662 von Willebrand Disease 2N (Subtype Normandy), Blood