The levels of von Willebrand factor (vWF: Ag) were measured in 27 patients with mitral
valve prolapse (MVP) and compared to 27 age matched controls. Decreased levels of
vWF:Ag (<80%) were found in 59% (16/27) of those with MVP compared to only 7% (2/27)
of the controls (p <0.001). Mean vWF: Ag levels were also significantly lower in those
with MVP (68 ± 30% versus 100 ± 23%, p <0.001). In those with MVP and congestive heart
failure secondary to ruptured chordae tendineae, however, the mean level of vWF:Ag
was not significantly different from control values (95 ± 32). There was an increased
incidence of recurrent nose bleeds in those with MVP and low levels of vWF: Ag. We
conclude that there is a relationship between MVP and low levels of vWF:Ag which may
explain the increased incidence of epistaxis in such patients. Increased release of
vWF: Ag in those with MVP and concomitant congestive heart failure may account for
the normal levels found in this subgroup.
Keywords
Mitral valve prolapse - von Willebrand factor referred patients - Congestive heart
failure
