Check Your Understanding – AvWS

What is acquired von Willebrand syndrome?

A condition that people are born with.

A condition that develops later in life because another medical problem affects von Willebrand factor.

Unlike inherited von Willebrand disease, acquired von Willebrand syndrome (AvWS) develops later in life. It is usually caused by another medical condition that affects the amount or function of von Willebrand factor.

A type of blood cancer.

A condition caused by having too few platelets.

Which statement best describes acquired von Willebrand syndrome?

It usually develops after birth and is not inherited.

Acquired von Willebrand syndrome is not inherited. It develops later in life, often in association with another medical condition.

It is passed from parent to child.

It always occurs during childhood.

It only affects women.

Why do doctors look for another medical condition when someone is diagnosed with acquired von Willebrand syndrome?

Because acquired von Willebrand syndrome is usually a sign that another condition is affecting von Willebrand factor.

Acquired von Willebrand syndrome is often linked to another condition, such as certain heart diseases, blood disorders, or immune conditions. Identifying and treating the underlying cause is an important part of care.

Because everyone with acquired von Willebrand syndrome has leukemia.

Because treatment is never needed.

Because blood tests are usually incorrect.

How is acquired von Willebrand syndrome usually treated?

Everyone receives the same lifelong treatment.

Treatment focuses only on raising the platelet count.

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and on whether bleeding is present.

Treatment is individualized. It may include treating the underlying condition, controlling bleeding, or temporarily increasing von Willebrand factor levels before surgery or during bleeding episodes.

Surgery is always required.

Which statement is TRUE about the outlook for people with acquired von Willebrand syndrome?

It always becomes worse over time.

It cannot be treated.

Everyone needs regular blood transfusions.

The outlook often improves when the underlying condition is successfully treated or controlled.

Because acquired von Willebrand syndrome is caused by another medical condition, treating or controlling that condition can often improve the bleeding problem as well

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