von Willebrands Disease

Medical Condition:
von Willebrands Disease

Group of hemorrhagic disorders in which the von Willebrand factor (Factor VIII-related antigen) is either quantitatively or qualitatively abnormal. They are usually inherited as an autosomal dominant trait though rare kindreds are autosomal recessive. Symptoms vary depending on severity and disease type but may include prolonged bleeding time, deficiency of factor VIII, and impaired platelet adhesion.