Diagnosis and Management of von Willebrand Disease in the United Kingdom

ABSTRACT

The UK treatment strategy for von Willebrand disease (VWD) is based on consensus guidelines produced by the United Kingdom Haemophilia Centre Doctors' Organization (UKHCDO) relating to the diagnosis and management of VWD. Selection of therapeutic products suitable for treatment of this complex inherited bleeding disorder is based on the observed response. Desmopressin (DDAVP), an analog of vasopressin, is the recommended treatment in individuals who respond to this drug on trial infusion. DDAVP clearly has no effect in type 3 VWD but may have variable clinical effect in individuals with other subtypes or may be contraindicated in some cases. In patients where DDAVP treatment is unsuitable, replacement factor concentrate containing von Willebrand factor (VWF) is the recommended alternative. Relevant concentrates are available for all patients in the United Kingdom, and treatment is administered by a network of 67 hemophilia treatment centers that also provide specialist care for individuals diagnosed with VWD. Patients diagnosed with the condition are registered on a national inherited bleeding disorder database administered by the UKHCDO on behalf of the Department of Health to aid in service planning and commissioning. Genetic testing is employed in the United Kingdom in certain situations, which is also performed in accordance with current UKHCDO guidelines.

KEYWORDS

von Willebrand disease - inherited bleeding disorders - service specification - UK Haemophilia Centre Doctors' Organization - National Haemophilia Database

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