What is Von Willebrand Disease known as?

Von Willebrand Disease is recognized as the most common inherited bleeding disorder in dogs and other animals, as well as in humans. This condition is attributed to a deficiency or dysfunction of von Willebrand factor, a crucial protein that helps platelets in the blood stick together and promotes blood clotting. As a result, animals with this disease experience prolonged bleeding after injuries or during surgical procedures, making it a significant concern in veterinary medicine.

While the condition can be categorized under broader genetic disorders, and its inheritance pattern can be dominant, the key defining characteristic of Von Willebrand Disease is its prevalence as a bleeding disorder. The focus on its status as the most common inherited bleeding disorder underscores the clinical importance of recognizing and diagnosing it in affected animals, which in turn informs treatment and management decisions by veterinary professionals.