Challenges in the Diagnosis of VWD in Children

Watch this informative video where Dr. Robert F. Sidonio, Jr. and Dr. Fernando F. Corrales-Medina discuss the challenges of identifying von Willebrand disease (VWD) bleeding symptoms in children, the most common presenting symptoms, the tests that are employed to diagnose the condition and when to use them, the importance of taking a family history, and the role of genotyping in helping to identify which family members may be affected.

VWD is underdiagnosed and challenging to diagnose correctly in children. If there has not been an event that disrupts hemostasis, such as a dental procedure, a surgery, or the onset of menstruation, the condition may be hidden. Because the symptoms of VWD often overlap with common bleeding events in young children, such as nosebleeds, differentiating normal from abnormal bleeding can be quite difficult. Failure to diagnose VWD can expose children to increased bleeding risk when they do undergo common childhood procedures, such as tonsillectomies. Accurate diagnosis of VWD can help care providers prepare for bleeding events and forestall related conditions such as anemia or heavy menstrual bleeding.

VWD and Prophylaxis

Prophylaxis, or regular, proactive factor treatment to help reduce the frequency of bleeds by preventing them before they happen, can help people living with VWD manage their illness and stay ahead of symptoms.

Find out if prophylactic treatment is right for your VWD

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Learn what to expect at the various development stages in the life of your child with a bleeding disorder, and what you can do to foster a safe, healthy, happy growing-up experience.

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This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or nursing advice, counseling, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult with your local Hemophilia Treatment Center physician or other health care provider if you have any questions related to management of bleeding disorders.

Este contenido no tiene como objetivo reemplazar el consejo, asesoramiento, diagnóstico o tratamiento de un médico o enfermero profesional. Consulte con el médico de su Centro de Tratamiento para la Hemofilia local u otro proveedor de atención médica si tiene preguntas relacionadas con el manejo de los trastornos hemorrágicos.

VWD and Prophylaxis

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