title: Women and von Willebrand disease.
abstract: In 1926 von Willebrand made the observation that 'the trait seemed especially to be seen among women'. A pictorial bleeding assessment chart (PBAC) defines menorrhagia with a score of > 100 representing > 80 ml blood loss. A retrospective study has shown menorrhagia in 74% patients with von Willebrand disease (vWD) and vWD in 13% patients with menorrhagia. Although von Willebrand factor (vWF) increases in pregnancy, there may be an increased incidence of post partum haemorrhage. DDAVP is a useful treatment for menorrhagia and postnatally. Clotting factor concentrates containing vWF may be required.
authors: Haemophilia Centre and Haemostasis Unit, Royal Free Hospital, Pond Street, London, UK.
authors: C A
authors: CA
authors: Lee
mesh_terms: D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008595:Menorrhagia / Q000150:complications; D010375:Pedigree; D014842:von Willebrand Diseases / Q000150:complications / Q000503:physiopathology*