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Platton S, Baker P, Bowyer A, Keenan C, Lawrence C, Lester W, Riddell A, Sutherland M. Guideline for laboratory diagnosis and monitoring of von Willebrand disease: A joint guideline from the United Kingdom Haemophilia Centre Doctors' Organisation and the British Society for Haematology. Br J Haematol 2024; 204:1714-1731. [PMID: 38532595 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.19385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Sean Platton
- Royal London Hospital Haemophilia Centre, London, UK
| | - Peter Baker
- Oxford Haemophilia and Thrombosis Centre, Nuffield Orthopaedic Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Annette Bowyer
- Department of Coagulation, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield, UK
| | - Catriona Keenan
- Department of Haematology & the National Coagulation Centre, St. James's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Will Lester
- Haemophilia Unit, University Hospitals, Birmingham, UK
| | - Anne Riddell
- Katharine Dormandy Haemophilia Centre, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
| | - Megan Sutherland
- North West Genomic Laboratory Hub, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
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2
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Atiq F, Blok R, van Kwawegen CB, Doherty D, Lavin M, van der Bom JG, O'Connell NM, de Meris J, Ryan K, Schols SEM, Byrne M, Heubel-Moenen FCJI, van Galen KPM, Preston RJS, Cnossen MH, Fijnvandraat K, Baker RI, Meijer K, James P, Di Paola J, Eikenboom J, Leebeek FWG, O'Donnell JS. Type 1 VWD classification revisited: novel insights from combined analysis of the LoVIC and WiN studies. Blood 2024; 143:1414-1424. [PMID: 38142407 PMCID: PMC11033584 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2023022457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT There is significant ongoing debate regarding type 1 von Willebrand disease (VWD) defintion. Previous guidelines recommended patients with von Willebrand factor (VWF) levels <30 IU/dL be diagnosed type 1 VWD, whereas patients with significant bleeding and VWF levels from 30 to 50 IU/dL be diagnosed with low VWF. To elucidate the relationship between type 1 VWD and low VWF in the context of age-induced increases in VWF levels, we combined data sets from 2 national cohort studies: 162 patients with low VWF from the Low VWF in Ireland Cohort (LoVIC) and 403 patients with type 1 VWD from the Willebrand in The Netherlands (WiN) studies. In 47% of type 1 VWD participants, VWF levels remained <30 IU/dL despite increasing age. Conversely, VWF levels increased to the low VWF range (30-50 IU/dL) in 30% and normalized (>50 IU/dL) in 23% of type 1 VWD cases. Crucially, absolute VWF antigen (VWF:Ag) levels and increase of VWF:Ag per year overlapped between low VWF and normalized type 1 VWD participants. Moreover, multiple regression analysis demonstrated that VWF:Ag levels in low VWF and normalized type 1 VWD patients would not have been different had they been diagnosed at the same age (β = 0.00; 95% confidence interval, -0.03 to 0.04). Consistently, no difference was found in the prevalence of VWF sequence variants; factor VIII activity/VWF:Ag or VWF propeptide/VWF:Ag ratios; or desmopressin responses between low VWF and normalized type 1 VWD patients. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate that low VWF does not constitute a discrete clinical or pathological entity. Rather, it is part of an age-dependent type 1 VWD evolving phenotype. Collectively, these data have important implications for future VWD classification criteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ferdows Atiq
- Irish Centre for Vascular Biology, School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Haematology, Erasmus University Medical Center-Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Robin Blok
- Department of Haematology, Erasmus University Medical Center-Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Calvin B. van Kwawegen
- Department of Haematology, Erasmus University Medical Center-Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Dearbhla Doherty
- Irish Centre for Vascular Biology, School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
- National Coagulation Centre, St James’s Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Michelle Lavin
- Irish Centre for Vascular Biology, School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
- National Coagulation Centre, St James’s Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Johanna G. van der Bom
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Joke de Meris
- Netherlands Hemophilia Society, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Kevin Ryan
- National Coagulation Centre, St James’s Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Saskia E. M. Schols
- Department of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen and Hemophilia Treatment Center, Nijmegen-Eindhoven-Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Mary Byrne
- National Coagulation Centre, St James’s Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Karin P. M. van Galen
- Van Creveldkliniek, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Roger J. S. Preston
- Irish Centre for Vascular Biology, School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Marjon H. Cnossen
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center–Sophia Children's Hospital Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Karin Fijnvandraat
- Department of Pediatric Hematology, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam University Medical Centres, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ross I. Baker
- Western Australia Centre for Thrombosis and Haemostasis, Perth Blood Institute, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia
- Irish-Australian Blood Collaborative Network, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Karina Meijer
- Department of Hematology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Paula James
- Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Jorge Di Paola
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO
| | - Jeroen Eikenboom
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Frank W. G. Leebeek
- Department of Haematology, Erasmus University Medical Center-Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - James S. O'Donnell
- Irish Centre for Vascular Biology, School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
- National Coagulation Centre, St James’s Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- Irish-Australian Blood Collaborative Network, Dublin, Ireland
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3
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Roberts JC, Christopherson PA, Tarantino MD, Gonzales SE, Morateck PA, Perry CL, Flood VH, Abshire TC, Montgomery RR. Von Willebrand Factor (VWF) multiplex activity assay differentiation of type 1 von Willebrand Disease (VWD) and variant VWD. Haemophilia 2024; 30:161-168. [PMID: 38013388 PMCID: PMC10842138 DOI: 10.1111/hae.14901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION VWD diagnosis is challenging requiring multiple VWF activity tests using many individual assays. We have developed an ELISA-based VWF Multiplex Activity Assay (VWF-MAA) to address this concern; however, the ability of the VWF-MAA to discriminate between type 1 VWD, variant VWD, and normal subjects has not been evaluated. AIM To evaluate the VWF-MAA and its ability to differentiate between type 1 VWD, variant VWD and normal subjects in individuals undergoing an initial laboratory evaluation for bleeding. METHODS A total of 177 plasma samples from the Zimmerman Program: Comparative Effectiveness in the Diagnosis of VWD were evaluated from 11 centres across the US and Canada. The VWF-MAA was compared to Versiti Blood Research Institute (VBRI) and Local Center (LC) assigned VWD diagnosis. RESULTS Overall, 129/177 (72.9%) were correctly assigned as normal (non-VWD), type 1, or variant VWD compared to the VBRI assigned diagnosis. VWF-MAA assigned non-VWD accurately in 29/57 (50.9%) samples, and type 1 VWD accurately in 93/110 (84.6%) samples. Considering LC diagnosis where there was agreement with VWF-MAA and not VBRI diagnosis, type 1 VWD was accurate in 105/110 (95.5%) samples. Bland-Altman analysis demonstrated good correlation between laboratory methods. VWD, types 2A, 2B, 1C VWD were also assigned by the VWF-MAA. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrate that the VWF-MAA has utility in differentiating type 1 VWD, variant VWD and normal subjects in individuals undergoing an initial laboratory evaluation for bleeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan C Roberts
- Bleeding & Clotting Disorders Institute (BCDI), Peoria, Illinois, USA
- Departments of Pediatrics and Medicine, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria, Peoria, Illinois, USA
| | | | - Michael D Tarantino
- Bleeding & Clotting Disorders Institute (BCDI), Peoria, Illinois, USA
- Departments of Pediatrics and Medicine, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria, Peoria, Illinois, USA
| | - Sarah E Gonzales
- Bleeding & Clotting Disorders Institute (BCDI), Peoria, Illinois, USA
| | - Patti A Morateck
- Versiti Blood Research Institute (VBRI), Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Crystal L Perry
- Versiti Blood Research Institute (VBRI), Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Veronica H Flood
- Versiti Blood Research Institute (VBRI), Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Thomas C Abshire
- Versiti Blood Research Institute (VBRI), Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Robert R Montgomery
- Versiti Blood Research Institute (VBRI), Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
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4
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Sadler B, Christopherson PA, Perry CL, Bellissimo DB, Haberichter SL, Haller G, Antunes L, Flood VH, Di Paola J, Montgomery RR. Characterization of copy-number variants in a large cohort of patients with von Willebrand disease reveals a relationship between disrupted regions and disease type. Res Pract Thromb Haemost 2023; 7:102232. [PMID: 38077814 PMCID: PMC10704516 DOI: 10.1016/j.rpth.2023.102232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Genetic analysis for von Willebrand disease (VWD) commonly utilizes DNA sequencing to identify variants in the von Willebrand factor (VWF) gene; however, this technique cannot always detect copy-number variants (CNVs). Additional mapping of CNVs in patients with VWD is needed. Objectives This study aimed to characterize CNVs in a large sample of VWF mutation-negative VWD patients. Methods To determine the role of CNVs in VWD, a VWF high-resolution comparative genomic hybridization array was custom-designed to avoid multiple sequence variations, repeated sequences, and the VWF pseudogene. This was performed on 204 mutation-negative subjects for whom clinical variables were also available. Results Among the 204 patients, 7 unique CNVs were found, with a total of 24 CNVs (12%). Of the 7 unique CNVs, 1 was novel, 1 was found in a VWF database, and 5 were previously reported. All patients with type 1C VWD and a CNV had the same exon 33 and 34 in-frame deletion. Certain clinical variables were also significantly different between those with and without CNVs. Conclusion The in-frame deletion in patients with type 1C VWD exactly matches the D4N module of the D4 domain, a region where mutations and deletions are known to affect clearance. We observed significantly higher VWF-to-ristocetin cofactor levels in patients with type 1C VWD and a CNV than in patients without a CNV, suggesting a relationship between CNVs and the increased clearance observed in patients with type 1C VWD. Glycoprotein IbM activity was significantly lower in patients with type 1 VWD and a CNV than in patients without a CNV, suggesting that platelet binding is more affected by CNVs than single base pair mutations. This work elucidates some of the underlying genetic mechanisms of CNVs in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brooke Sadler
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | | | | | - Daniel B. Bellissimo
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Sandra L. Haberichter
- Versiti Blood Research Institute, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
- Division of Pediatric Hematology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Gabe Haller
- Department of Neurosurgery, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Lilian Antunes
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Veronica H. Flood
- Versiti Blood Research Institute, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
- Division of Pediatric Hematology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Jorge Di Paola
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Robert R. Montgomery
- Versiti Blood Research Institute, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
- Division of Pediatric Hematology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Zimmerman Program Investigators
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
- Versiti Blood Research Institute, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Division of Pediatric Hematology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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5
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Doherty D, Michelle Lavin, Byrne M, Nolan M, O’Sullivan JM, Ryan K, O’Connell NM, Haberichter SL, Christopherson PA, Di Paola J, James PD, O’Donnell JS. Enhanced VWF clearance in low VWF pathogenesis: limitations of the VWFpp/VWF:Ag ratio and clinical significance. Blood Adv 2023; 7:302-308. [PMID: 35523118 PMCID: PMC9898599 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2022007340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Increased von Willebrand factor (VWF) clearance plays a key role in the pathogenesis of type 1 and type 2 von Willebrand disease (VWD). However, the pathological mechanisms involved in patients with mild to moderate reductions in plasma VWF:Ag (range, 30-50 IU/dL; low VWF) remain poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the hypothesis that enhanced VWF clearance may contribute to the pathobiology of low VWF. Patients with low VWF were recruited to the LoVIC study after ethics approval and receipt of informed consent. Desmopressin was administered IV in 75 patients, and blood samples were drawn at baseline and at the 1-hour and 4-hour time points. As defined by recent ASH/ISTH/NHF/WFH guidelines, 20% of our low-VWF cohort demonstrated significantly enhanced VWF clearance. Importantly, from a clinical perspective, this enhanced VWF clearance was seen after desmopressin infusion, but did not affect the steady-state VWF propeptide (VWFpp)-to-VWF antigen (VWF:Ag) ratio (VWFpp/VWF:Ag) in most cases. The discrepancy between the VWFpp/VWF:Ag ratio and desmopressin fall-off rates in patients with mild quantitative VWD may have reflected alteration in VWFpp clearance kinetics. Finally, bleeding scores were significantly lower in patients with low VWF with enhanced VWF clearance, compared with those in whom reduced VWF biosynthesis represented the principle pathogenic mechanism. This trial was registered at http://www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT03167320.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dearbhla Doherty
- National Coagulation Centre, St James’s Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- Irish Centre for Vascular Biology, School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Michelle Lavin
- National Coagulation Centre, St James’s Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- Irish Centre for Vascular Biology, School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mary Byrne
- National Coagulation Centre, St James’s Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Margaret Nolan
- National Coagulation Centre, St James’s Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Jamie M. O’Sullivan
- Irish Centre for Vascular Biology, School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Kevin Ryan
- National Coagulation Centre, St James’s Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Sandra L. Haberichter
- Diagnostic Laboratories and Blood Research Institute, Versiti, Milwaukee, WI
- Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
- Children’s Research Institute, Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
| | | | - Jorge Di Paola
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO
| | - Paula D. James
- Department of Medicine, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - James S. O’Donnell
- National Coagulation Centre, St James’s Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- Irish Centre for Vascular Biology, School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
- National Children’s Research Centre, Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital Crumlin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Zimmerman Program Investigators
- National Coagulation Centre, St James’s Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- Irish Centre for Vascular Biology, School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
- Diagnostic Laboratories and Blood Research Institute, Versiti, Milwaukee, WI
- Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
- Children’s Research Institute, Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO
- Department of Medicine, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON, Canada
- National Children’s Research Centre, Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital Crumlin, Dublin, Ireland
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O'Donnell JS, Baker RI. Low von Willebrand Disease: A Bleeding Disorder of Unknown Cause? Hamostaseologie 2023; 43:44-51. [PMID: 36807819 DOI: 10.1055/a-1980-8198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
von Willebrand disease (VWD) represents the most common inherited bleeding disorder. The majority of VWD cases are characterized by partial quantitative reductions in plasma von Willebrand factor (VWF) levels. Management of patients with mild to moderate VWF reductions in the range of 30 to 50 IU/dL poses a common clinical challenge. Some of these low VWF patients present with significant bleeding problems. In particular, heavy menstrual bleeding and postpartum hemorrhage can cause significant morbidity. Conversely, however, many individuals with mild plasma VWF:Ag reductions do not have any bleeding sequelae. In contrast to type 1 VWD, most patients with low VWF do not have detectable pathogenic VWF sequence variants, and bleeding phenotype correlates poorly with residual VWF levels. These observations suggest that low VWF is a complex disorder caused by variants in other genes beyond VWF. With respect to low VWF pathobiology, recent studies have shown that reduced VWF biosynthesis within endothelial cells likely plays a key role. However, pathological enhanced VWF clearance from plasma has also been described in approximately 20% of low VWF cases. For low VWF patients who require hemostatic treatment prior to elective procedures, tranexamic acid and desmopressin have both been shown to be efficacious. In this article, we review the current state of the art regarding low VWF. In addition, we consider how low VWF represents an entity that appears to fall between type 1 VWD on the one hand and bleeding disorders of unknown cause on the other.
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Affiliation(s)
- James S O'Donnell
- Irish Centre for Vascular Biology, School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland.,National Coagulation Centre, St James's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland.,Irish-Australian Blood Collaborative (IABC) Network, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Ross I Baker
- Irish-Australian Blood Collaborative (IABC) Network, Dublin, Ireland.,Western Australia Centre for Thrombosis and Haemostasis, Perth Blood Institute, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia.,Hollywood Haemophilia Treatment Centre, Hollywood Hospital, Perth, Australia
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Sadler B, Castaman G, O’Donnell JS. von Willebrand disease and von Willebrand factor. Haemophilia 2022; 28 Suppl 4:11-17. [PMID: 35521725 PMCID: PMC9094051 DOI: 10.1111/hae.14547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Progress in both basic and translational research into the molecular mechanisms of VWD can be seen in multiple fields. GENETICS OF VWD In the past several decades, knowledge of the underlying pathogenesis of von Willebrand disease (VWD) has increased tremendously, thanks in no small part to detailed genetic mapping of the von Willebrand Factor (VWF) gene and advances in genetic and bioinformatic technology. However, these advances do not always easily translate into improved management for patients with VWD and low-VWF levels. VWD AND PREGNANCY For example, the treatment of pregnant women with VWD both pre- and postpartum can be complicated. While knowledge of the VWF genotype at some amino acid positions can aid in knowledge of who may be at increased risk of thrombocytopenia or insufficient increase in VWF levels during pregnancy, in many cases, VWF levels and bleeding severity is highly heterogeneous, making monitoring recommended during pregnancy to optimize treatment strategies. VWF AND COVID-19: New challenges related to the consequences of dysregulation of hemostasis continue to be discovered. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted that VWF has additional biological roles in the regulation of inflammatory disorders and angiogenesis, disruption of which may contribute to COVID-19 induced vasculopathy. Increased endothelial cell activation and Weibel-Palade body exocytosis in severe COVID-19 lead to markedly increased plasma VWF levels. Coupled with impairment of normal ADAMTS13 multimer regulation, these data suggest a role for VWF in the pathogenesis underlying pulmonary microvascular angiopathy in severe COVID-19. CONCLUSION With the increased affordability and availability of next-generation sequencing techniques, as well as a push towards a multi-omic approach and personalized medicine in human genetics, there is hope that translational research will improve VWD patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brooke Sadler
- Washington University School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, St. Louis, MO USA
| | - Giancarlo Castaman
- Center for Bleeding Disorders and Coagulation, Department of Oncology, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - James S. O’Donnell
- Irish Centre for Vascular Biology, School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland,National Coagulation Centre, St James’s Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
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8
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Low VWF: insights into pathogenesis, diagnosis, and clinical management. Blood Adv 2021; 4:3191-3199. [PMID: 32663299 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2020002038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
von Willebrand disease (VWD) constitutes the most common inherited human bleeding disorder. Partial quantitative von Willebrand factor (VWF) deficiency is responsible for the majority of VWD cases. International guidelines recommend that patients with mild to moderate reductions in plasma VWF antigen (VWF:Ag) levels (typically in the range of 30-50 IU/dL) should be diagnosed with low VWF. Over the past decade, a series of large cohort studies have provided significant insights into the biological mechanisms involved in type 1 VWD (plasma VWF:Ag levels <30 IU/dL). In striking contrast, however, the pathogenesis underpinning low VWF has remained poorly understood. Consequently, low VWF patients continue to present significant clinical challenges with respect to genetic counseling, diagnosis, and management. For example, there is limited information regarding the relationship between plasma VWF:Ag levels and bleeding phenotype in subjects with low VWF. In addition, it is not clear whether patients with low VWF need treatment. For those patients with low VWF in whom treatment is deemed necessary, the optimal choice of therapy remains unknown. However, a number of recent studies have provided important novel insights into these clinical conundrums and the molecular mechanisms responsible for the reduced levels observed in low VWF patients. These emerging clinical and scientific findings are considered in this review, with particular focus on pathogenesis, diagnosis, and clinical management of low VWF.
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Doherty D, Lavin M, O'Sullivan JM, Ryan K, O'Connell NM, Dougall A, Byrne M, Rafferty M, Doyle MM, Di Paola J, James PD, O'Donnell JS. Management of elective procedures in low von Willebrand factor patients in the LoVIC study. J Thromb Haemost 2021; 19:701-710. [PMID: 33346399 DOI: 10.1111/jth.15220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most individuals with mild to moderate reductions in plasma von Willebrand factor (VWF) levels do not demonstrate increased bleeding. However, some patients with plasma VWF levels of 30-50 IU/dl do have a significant bleeding phenotype. Management of these "low VWF" patients, who may have significant bleeding scores >10, around times of elective procedures continues to pose a common clinical challenge because of a lack of evidence. OBJECTIVE To investigate the safety and efficacy of different periprocedural management options for adult patients with low VWF. METHODS Treatment and outcomes were retrospectively reviewed for 160 invasive procedures performed in 60 patients with well characterized low VWF enrolled in the previously described Low Von Willebrand factor Ireland Cohort study. RESULTS We demonstrate that 1-desamino-8-D-arginine vasopressin is efficacious in preventing bleeding for both minor or major elective procedures in adult low VWF patients, even in those with significant bleeding histories. In addition, tranexamic acid alone is effective for low VWF patients undergoing nondental minor procedures. Importantly, age-related increases in plasma VWF:antigen levels above 50 IU/dl were not necessarily associated with complete correction of bleeding phenotype. Procedure-related bleeding complications were increased in low VWF patients who did not receive any hemostatic cover before their procedure. CONCLUSION Elective procedures in adult patients with low VWF should be managed in liaison with a comprehensive care tertiary referral center so that personalized treatment plans may be implemented before all minor or major elective procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dearbhla Doherty
- National Coagulation Centre, St James's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- Irish Centre for Vascular Biology, School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Michelle Lavin
- National Coagulation Centre, St James's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- Irish Centre for Vascular Biology, School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Jamie M O'Sullivan
- Irish Centre for Vascular Biology, School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Kevin Ryan
- National Coagulation Centre, St James's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Alison Dougall
- National Coagulation Centre, St James's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mary Byrne
- National Coagulation Centre, St James's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Marie Rafferty
- National Coagulation Centre, St James's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mairead M Doyle
- National Coagulation Centre, St James's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Jorge Di Paola
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Paula D James
- Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - James S O'Donnell
- National Coagulation Centre, St James's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- Irish Centre for Vascular Biology, School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland
- National Children's Research Centre, Our Lady's Children's Hospital Crumlin, Dublin, Ireland
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10
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O'Donnell JS. Toward Personalized Treatment for Patients with Low von Willebrand Factor and Quantitative von Willebrand Disease. Semin Thromb Hemost 2021; 47:192-200. [PMID: 33636750 DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1722864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The biological mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of type 2 and type 3 von Willebrand disease (VWD) have been studied extensively. In contrast, although accounting for the majority of VWD cases, the pathobiology underlying partial quantitative VWD has remained somewhat elusive. However, important insights have been attained following several recent cohort studies that have investigated mechanisms in patients with type 1 VWD and low von Willebrand factor (VWF), respectively. These studies have demonstrated that reduced plasma VWF levels may result from either (1) decreased VWF biosynthesis and/or secretion in endothelial cells and (2) pathological increased VWF clearance. In addition, it has become clear that some patients with only mild to moderate reductions in plasma VWF levels in the 30 to 50 IU/dL range may have significant bleeding phenotypes. Importantly in these low VWF patients, bleeding risk fails to correlate with plasma VWF levels and inheritance is typically independent of the VWF gene. Although plasma VWF levels may increase to > 50 IU/dL with progressive aging or pregnancy in these subjects, emerging data suggest that this apparent normalization in VWF levels does not necessarily equate to a complete correction in bleeding phenotype in patients with partial quantitative VWD. In this review, these recent advances in our understanding of quantitative VWD pathogenesis are discussed. Furthermore, the translational implications of these emerging findings are considered, particularly with respect to designing personalized treatment plans for VWD patients undergoing elective procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- James S O'Donnell
- Irish Centre for Vascular Biology, School of Pharmacy & Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland.,National Coagulation Centre, St. James's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland.,National Children's Research Centre, Our Lady's Children's Hospital at Crumlin, Dublin, Ireland
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11
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von Willebrand factor antigen levels are associated with burden of rare nonsynonymous variants in the VWF gene. Blood 2021; 137:3277-3283. [PMID: 33556167 PMCID: PMC8351900 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2020009999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Approximately 35% of patients with type 1 von Willebrand disease (VWD) do not have a known pathogenic variant in the von Willebrand factor (VWF) gene. We aimed to understand the impact of VWF coding variants on VWD risk and VWF antigen (VWF:Ag) levels, studying 527 patients with low VWF and VWD and 210 healthy controls. VWF sequencing was performed and VWF:Ag levels assayed. A combined annotation-dependent depletion (CADD) score >20 was used as a predicted pathogenicity measure. The number of rare nonsynonymous VWF variants significantly predicted VWF:Ag levels (P = 1.62 × 10-21). There was an association between average number of rare nonsynonymous VWF variants with VWD type 1 (P = 2.4 × 10-13) and low VWF (P = 1.6 × 10-27) compared with healthy subjects: type 1 subjects possessed on average >2 times as many rare variants as those with low VWF and 8 times as many as healthy subjects. The number of rare nonsynonymous variants significantly predicts VWF:Ag levels even after controlling for presence of a variant with a CADD score >20 or a known pathogenic variant in VWF (P = 2.7 × 10-14). The number of rare nonsynonymous variants in VWF as well as the presence of a variant with CADD >20 are both significantly associated with VWF levels. The association with rare nonsynonymous variants holds even when controlling for known pathogenic variants, suggesting that additional variants, in VWF or elsewhere, are associated with VWF:Ag levels. Patients with higher VWF:Ag levels with fewer rare nonsynonymous VWF gene variants could benefit from next-generation sequencing to find the cause of their bleeding.
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12
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Baronciani L, Peyvandi F. How we make an accurate diagnosis of von Willebrand disease. Thromb Res 2020; 196:579-589. [DOI: 10.1016/j.thromres.2019.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2019] [Revised: 06/27/2019] [Accepted: 07/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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13
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Mondal S, Hollander KN, Ibekwe SO, Williams B, Tanaka K. Heyde Syndrome-Pathophysiology and Perioperative Implications. J Cardiothorac Vasc Anesth 2020; 35:3331-3339. [PMID: 33132021 DOI: 10.1053/j.jvca.2020.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Revised: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding in patients with calcific aortic valve stenosis (AVS), termed Heyde syndrome, was first described by Edward C. Heyde. The strong association between valvular replacement and the eradication of clinically significant GI bleeding confirmed an underlying pathophysiologic relationship. The rheologic stress created by AVS increases proteolysis of von Willebrand factor (VWF), resulting in loss of predominantly high-molecular-weight VWF (Hmw VWF). Angiodysplastic vessels present in patients with AVS, coupled with the lack of functioning Hmw VWF, increase the risk for GI bleeds. Aortic valve replacement, both surgical and transcatheter-based, is often a definitive treatment for GI bleeding, leading to recovery of Hmw VWF multimers. Perioperative management of patients involves monitoring their coagulation profiles with relevant laboratory tests and instituting appropriate management. Management can be directed in the following two ways: by improving internal release of VWF or by administration of external therapeutics containing VWF. It is important for perioperative physicians to obtain an understanding of the pathophysiology of this disease process and closely monitor the bleeding pattern so that targeted therapies can be initiated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samhati Mondal
- Department of Anesthesiology, Cardiac Anesthesia Division, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD.
| | - Kimberly N Hollander
- Department of Anesthesiology, Cardiac Anesthesia Division, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Stephanie O Ibekwe
- Department of Anesthesiology, Cardiovascular Division, BTGH, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Brittney Williams
- Department of Anesthesiology, Cardiac Anesthesia Division, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Kenichi Tanaka
- Department of Anesthesiology, Cardiac Anesthesia Division, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
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14
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Kim HJ, Kim SK, Yoo KY, Lee KO, Yun JW, Kim SH, Kim HJ, Park SK. Molecular Genetics of von Willebrand Disease in Korean Patients: Novel Variants and Limited Diagnostic Utility of Multiplex Ligation-Dependent Probe Amplification Analyses. Ann Lab Med 2019; 39:545-551. [PMID: 31240882 PMCID: PMC6660331 DOI: 10.3343/alm.2019.39.6.545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2018] [Revised: 02/01/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND von Willebrand disease (VWD), characterized by quantitative or qualitative defects of von Willebrand factor (VWF), is the most common inheritable bleeding disorder. Data regarding the genetic background of VWD in Korean patients is limited. To our knowledge, this is the first comprehensive molecular genetic investigation of Korean patients with VWD. METHODS Twenty-two unrelated patients with VWD were recruited from August 2014 to December 2017 (age range 28 months-64 years; male:female ratio 1.2:1). Fifteen patients had type 1, six had type 2, and one had type 3 VWD. Blood samples were collected for coagulation analyses and molecular genetic analyses from each patient. Direct sequencing of all exons, flanking intronic sequences, and the promoter of VWF was performed. In patients without sequence variants, multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) was performed to detect dosage variants. We adapted the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics guidelines for variant interpretation and considered variants of uncertain significance, likely pathogenic variants, and pathogenic variants as putative disease-causing variants. RESULTS VWF variants were identified in 15 patients (68%): 14 patients with a single heterozygous variant and one patient with two heterozygous variants. The variants consisted of 13 missense variants, one small insertion, and one splicing variant. Four variants were novel: p.S764Efs*16, p.C889R, p.C1130Y, and p.W2193C. MLPA analysis in seven patients without reportable variants revealed no dosage variants. CONCLUSIONS This study revealed the spectrum of VWF variants, including novel ones, and limited diagnostic utility of MLPA analyses in Korean patients with VWD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hee Jung Kim
- Department of Laboratory Medicine & Genetics, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, CHA Gangnam Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Soon Ki Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, Inha University Hospital, Incheon, Korea
| | | | - Ki O Lee
- Samsung Biomedical Research Institute, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jae Won Yun
- Department of Laboratory Medicine & Genetics, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sun Hee Kim
- Department of Laboratory Medicine & Genetics, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hee Jin Kim
- Department of Laboratory Medicine & Genetics, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
| | - Sang Kyu Park
- Department of Pediatrics, Ulsan University Hospital, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Ulsan, Korea.
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15
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Increased galactose expression and enhanced clearance in patients with low von Willebrand factor. Blood 2019; 133:1585-1596. [DOI: 10.1182/blood-2018-09-874636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Accepted: 02/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Glycan determinants on von Willebrand factor (VWF) play critical roles in regulating its susceptibility to proteolysis and clearance. Abnormal glycosylation has been shown to cause von Willebrand disease (VWD) in a number of different mouse models. However, because of the significant technical challenges associated with accurate assessment of VWF glycan composition, the importance of carbohydrates in human VWD pathogenesis remains largely unexplored. To address this, we developed a novel lectin-binding panel to enable human VWF glycan characterization. This methodology was then used to study glycan expression in a cohort of 110 patients with low VWF compared with O blood group-matched healthy controls. Interestingly, significant interindividual heterogeneity in VWF glycan expression was seen in the healthy control population. This variation included terminal sialylation and ABO(H) blood group expression on VWF. Importantly, we also observed evidence of aberrant glycosylation in a subgroup of patients with low VWF. In particular, terminal α(2-6)-linked sialylation was reduced in patients with low VWF, with a secondary increase in galactose (Gal) exposure. Furthermore, an inverse correlation between Gal exposure and estimated VWF half-life was observed in those patients with enhanced VWF clearance. Together, these findings support the hypothesis that loss of terminal sialylation contributes to the pathophysiology underpinning low VWF in at least a subgroup of patients by promoting enhanced clearance. In addition, alterations in VWF carbohydrate expression are likely to contribute to quantitative and qualitative variations in VWF levels in the normal population. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT03167320.
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16
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Horiuchi H, Doman T, Kokame K, Saiki Y, Matsumoto M. Acquired von Willebrand Syndrome Associated with Cardiovascular Diseases. J Atheroscler Thromb 2019; 26:303-314. [PMID: 30867356 PMCID: PMC6456452 DOI: 10.5551/jat.rv17031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The blood glycoprotein von Willebrand factor (VWF) plays an important role in hemostasis and thrombosis. VWF is produced and secreted as large multimers by endothelial cells and megakaryocytes. It is then cleaved in a sheer-stress dependent manner by a specific protease, ADAMTS13, into multimers consisting of 2–80 subunits. Among VWF multimers, high molecular weight (HMW) multimers play important roles in platelet aggregation. Therefore, their loss induces a hemostatic disorder known as von Willebrand disease (VWD) type 2A. Various cardiovascular diseases, such as aortic stenosis, hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM), and several congenital structural diseases, as well as mechanical circulatory support systems, generate excessive high shear stress in the bloodstream. These cause excessive cleavage of VWF multimers resulting in a loss of HMW multimers, known as acquired von Willebrand syndrome (AVWS), a hemostatic disorder similar to VWD type 2A. Bleeding often occurs in the gastrointestinal tract since a fragile angiodysplasia develops associated with these diseases. Radical treatment for AVWS is to remove the pathological high shear causing AVWS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hisanori Horiuchi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, Tohoku University
| | - Tsuyoshi Doman
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, Tohoku University
| | - Koichi Kokame
- Department of Molecular Pathogenesis, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center
| | - Yoshikatsu Saiki
- Division of Cardiovascular Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine
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17
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How I treat low von Willebrand factor levels. Blood 2019; 133:795-804. [DOI: 10.1182/blood-2018-10-844936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Partial quantitative deficiency of plasma von Willebrand factor (VWF) is responsible for the majority of cases of von Willebrand disease (VWD), the most common inherited human bleeding disorder. International consensus guidelines recommend that patients with reduced plasma VWF antigen (VWF:Ag) levels and bleeding phenotypes be considered in 2 distinct subsets. First, patients with marked reductions in plasma VWF levels (<30 IU/dL) usually have significant bleeding phenotypes and should be classified with “type 1 VWD.” In contrast, patients with intermediate reduced plasma VWF levels (in the range of 30-50 IU/dL) should be considered in a separate category labeled “low VWF levels.” These patients with low VWF commonly display variable bleeding phenotypes and often do not have VWF gene sequence variations. Because the pathophysiology underlying low VWF levels remains largely undefined, diagnosis and management of these patients continue to pose significant difficulties. In this article, we present a number of clinical case studies to highlight these common clinical challenges. In addition, we detail our approach to establishing a diagnosis in low VWF patients and discuss strategies for the management of these patients in the context of elective surgery and pregnancy.
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18
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Mezzano D, Quiroga T. Diagnostic challenges of inherited mild bleeding disorders: a bait for poorly explored clinical and basic research. J Thromb Haemost 2019; 17:257-270. [PMID: 30562407 DOI: 10.1111/jth.14363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The best-known inherited mild bleeding disorders (MBDs), i.e. type 1 von Willebrand disease (VWD), platelet function disorders (PFDs), and mild to moderate clotting factor deficiencies, are characterized clinically by mucocutaneous bleeding, and, although they are highly prevalent, still pose difficult diagnostic problems. These include establishing the pathological nature of bleeding, and the uncertainties surrounding the clinical relevance of laboratory results. Furthermore, the high frequency of bleeding symptoms in the normal population and the subjective appraisal of symptoms by patients or parents makes elucidating the pathological nature of bleeding difficult. Standardized bleeding assessment tools and semiquantitative bleeding scores (BSs) help to discriminate normal from abnormal bleeding. However, as most MBDs have similar bleeding patterns, for example, bleeding sites, frequency, and severity, BSs are of little help for diagnosing specific diseases. Global tests of primary hemostasis (bleeding time; PFA-100/200) lack sensitivity and, like BSs, are not disease-specific. Problems with the diagnosis of type 1 VWD and PFD include assay standardization, uncertain definition of von Willebrand factor cut-off levels, and the lack of universal diagnostic criteria for PFD. Regarding clotting factor deficiencies, the bleeding thresholds of some coagulation factors, such as factor VII and FXI, are highly variable, and may lead to misinterpretation of the clinical relevance of mild to moderate deficiencies. Remarkably, a large proportion of MBDs remain undiagnosed even after comprehensive and repeated laboratory testing. These are tentatively considered to represent bleeding of undefined cause, with clinical features indistinguishable from those of classical MBD; the pathogenesis of this is probably multifactorial, and unveiling these mechanisms should constitute a fertile source of translational research.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Mezzano
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - T Quiroga
- Clinical Laboratory, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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19
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Swystun LL, Lillicrap D. Genetic regulation of plasma von Willebrand factor levels in health and disease. J Thromb Haemost 2018; 16:2375-2390. [PMID: 30246494 PMCID: PMC7147242 DOI: 10.1111/jth.14304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Plasma levels of the multimeric glycoprotein von Willebrand factor (VWF) constitute a complex quantitative trait with a continuous distribution and wide range in the normal population (50-200%). Quantitative deficiencies of VWF (< 50%) are associated with an increased risk of bleeding, whereas high plasma levels of VWF (> 150%) influence the risk of arterial and venous thromboembolism. Although environmental factors can strongly influence plasma VWF levels, it is estimated that approximately 65% of this variability is heritable. Interestingly, although variability in VWF can account for ~ 5% of the genetic influence on plasma VWF levels, other genetic loci also strongly modify plasma VWF levels. The identification of the additional sources of VWF heritability has been the focus of recent observational trait-mapping studies, including genome-wide association studies or linkage analyses, as well as hypothesis-driven research studies. Quantitative trait loci influencing VWF glycosylation, secretion and clearance have been associated with plasma VWF antigen levels in normal individuals, and may contribute to quantitative VWF abnormalities in patients with a thrombotic tendency or type 1 von Willebrand disease (VWD). The identification of genetic modifiers of plasma VWF levels may allow for better molecular diagnosis of type 1 VWD, and enable the identification of individuals at increased risk for thrombosis. Validation of trait-mapping studies with in vitro and in vivo methodologies has led to novel insights into the life cycle of VWF and the pathogenesis of quantitative VWF abnormalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- L L Swystun
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - D Lillicrap
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
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20
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Novel insights into the clinical phenotype and pathophysiology underlying low VWF levels. Blood 2017; 130:2344-2353. [PMID: 28916584 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2017-05-786699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2017] [Accepted: 09/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Critical clinical questions remain unanswered regarding diagnosis and management of patients with low von Willebrand factor (VWF) levels (30-50 IU/dL). To address these questions, the Low VWF Ireland Cohort (LoVIC) study investigated 126 patients registered with low VWF levels. Despite marginally reduced plasma VWF levels, International Society of Thrombosis and Haemostasis Bleeding Assessment Tool (ISTH BAT) confirmed significant bleeding phenotypes in the majority of LoVIC patients. Importantly, bleeding tendency did not correlate with plasma VWF levels within the 30 to 50 IU/dL range. Furthermore, bleeding phenotypes could not be explained by concurrent hemostatic defects. Plasma factor VIII to VWF antigen (VWF:Ag) ratios were significantly increased in LoVIC patients compared with controls (P < .0001). In contrast, VWF propeptide to VWF:Ag ratios >3 were observed in only 6% of the LoVIC cohort. Furthermore, platelet-VWF collagen binding activity levels were both significantly reduced compared with controls (P < .05). In response to 1-desamino-8-D-arginine vasopressin (DDAVP), peak VWF:Ag levels exceeded 100 IU/dL in 88% of patients and was sustained >100 IU/dL after 4 hours in 72% of subjects. In conclusion, our novel data suggest that low VWF levels can be associated with significant bleeding and are predominantly due to reductions in VWF synthesis and/or constitutive secretion. Although enhanced VWF clearance may contribute to the pathophysiology in some individuals, the absolute reduction in VWF plasma half-life is usually mild and not sufficient to significantly impact upon the duration of DDAVP-induced VWF response. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT03167320.
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22
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Abstract
In this issue of Blood, Sanders and coworkers define the pathophysiology of types 1, 2, and 3 von Willebrand disease (VWD) in the Willebrand in the Netherlands (WiN) study by using the ratios of von Willebrand factor propeptide (VWFpp) or factor VIII activity to VWF antigen.
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23
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24
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Díaz R, Dietrich JE, Mahoney D, Yee DL, Srivaths LV. Hemostatic abnormalities in young females with heavy menstrual bleeding. J Pediatr Adolesc Gynecol 2014; 27:324-9. [PMID: 25256871 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpag.2013.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2013] [Revised: 12/13/2013] [Accepted: 12/16/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the prevalence of hemostatic abnormalities, including bleeding disorders and risk factors, in young females referred to a multidisciplinary clinic for evaluation of heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB). METHODS Retrospective chart review was undertaken for 131 post-menarchal girls with HMB, 7 to 17 years of age, enrolled in the institutional 'Menorrhagia Data Registry' protocol. The diagnostic approach included: (1) complete blood count, prothrombin time, partial thromboplastin time, fibrinogen, von Willebrand panel (2) platelet aggregometry, specific clotting factor assay, fibrinolytic pathway analysis, and factor XIII level as needed. The prevalence of hemostatic abnormalities and the prognostic significance of clinical variables associated with hemostatic abnormalities in young girls with HMB were evaluated. RESULTS A hemostatic abnormality was identified in 69 (53%) young girls with HMB. Of these, 27 (21%) had an underlying bleeding disorder and 42 (32%) had a risk factor for bleeding, namely low von Willebrand factor activity. A larger number of girls with underlying bleeding disorder had personal history of other bleeding symptoms (48% vs 31%) and bleeding after surgical or dental procedure (25% vs 8%) when compared to females without hemostatic abnormality. Furthermore, girls with risk factor for bleeding (low vWF activity) were more likely to have bleeding after surgical or dental procedure (15% vs 8%) and family history of bleeding (79% vs 60%) than patients without hemostatic abnormality. CONCLUSIONS There is high prevalence of hemostatic abnormalities, including bleeding disorders and risk factors, in young girls with HMB. These findings support comprehensive and systematic hemostatic evaluation in this group of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Díaz
- Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX.
| | - Jennifer E Dietrich
- Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX; Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
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25
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Laffan MA, Lester W, O'Donnell JS, Will A, Tait RC, Goodeve A, Millar CM, Keeling DM. The diagnosis and management of von Willebrand disease: a United Kingdom Haemophilia Centre Doctors Organization guideline approved by the British Committee for Standards in Haematology. Br J Haematol 2014; 167:453-65. [PMID: 25113304 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.13064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 227] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mike A Laffan
- Centre for Haematology, Imperial College London, London, UK
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26
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James PD, Lillicrap D. The molecular characterization of von Willebrand disease: good in parts. Br J Haematol 2013; 161:166-76. [PMID: 23406206 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.12249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Since the cloning of the gene that encodes von Willebrand factor (VWF), 27 years ago, significant progress has been made in our understanding of the molecular basis of the most common inherited bleeding disorder, von Willebrand disease (VWD). The molecular pathology of this condition represents a range of genetic mechanisms, some of which are now very well characterized, and others that are still under investigation. In general, our knowledge of the molecular basis of type 2 and 3 VWD is now well advanced, and in some instances this information is being used to enhance clinical management. In contrast, our understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of the most common form of VWD, type 1 disease, is still at an early stage, with preliminary evidence that this phenotype involves a complex interplay between environmental factors and the influence of genetic variability both within and outside of the VWF locus.
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Affiliation(s)
- P D James
- Department of Medicine, Etherington Hall, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
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27
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Yadegari H, Driesen J, Pavlova A, Biswas A, Hertfelder HJ, Oldenburg J. Mutation distribution in the von Willebrand factor gene related to the different von Willebrand disease (VWD) types in a cohort of VWD patients. Thromb Haemost 2012; 108:662-71. [PMID: 22871923 DOI: 10.1160/th12-02-0089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2012] [Accepted: 07/06/2012] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Von Willebrand disease (VWD) is the most common inherited bleeding disorder caused by quantitative or qualitative defects of the von Willebrand factor (VWF). VWD is classified into three types--type 1 (partial quantitative deficiencies), type 2 (qualitative defects) and type 3 (complete deficiency of VWF). In this study we explored genotype and phenotype characteristics of patients with VWD with the aim of dissecting the distribution of mutations in different types of VWD. One hundred fourteen patients belonging to 78 families diagnosed to have VWD were studied. Mutation analysis was performed by direct sequencing of the VWF . Large deletions were investigated by multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) analysis. The impact of novel candidate missense mutations and potential splice site mutations was predicted by in silico assessments. We identified mutations in 66 index patients (IPs) (84.6%). Mutation detection rate was 68%, 94% and 94% for VWD type 1, 2 and 3, respectively. In total, 68 different putative mutations were detected comprising 37 missense mutations (54.4%), 10 small deletions (14.7%), two small insertions (2.9%), seven nonsense mutations (10.3%), five splice-site mutations (7.4%), six large deletions (8.8%) and one silent mutation (1.5%). Twenty-six of these mutations were novel. Furthermore, in type 1 and type 2 VWD, the majority of identified mutations (74% vs. 88.1%) were missense substitutions while mutations in type 3 VWD mostly caused null alleles (82%). Genotyping in VWD is a helpful tool to further elucidate the pathogenesis of VWD and to establish the relationship between genotype and phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamideh Yadegari
- Institute of Experimental Haematology and Transfusion medicine, University Clinics Bonn, Germany
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28
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Robertson JD, Yenson PR, Rand ML, Blanchette VS, Carcao MD, Notley C, Lillicrap D, James PD. Expanded phenotype-genotype correlations in a pediatric population with type 1 von Willebrand disease. J Thromb Haemost 2011; 9:1752-60. [PMID: 21711445 DOI: 10.1111/j.1538-7836.2011.04423.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent phenotype-genotype studies have provided valuable insights into the pathophysiology of type 1 von Willebrand disease (VWD); however, no study has examined an exclusively pediatric cohort. OBJECTIVES To describe phenotype-genotype correlations in a selected pediatric cohort with a historical diagnosis of type 1 VWD, using first-degree family members as controls. METHODS Comprehensive phenotypic assessment included standard assays of von Willebrand factor (VWF) level and function, bleeding score, desmopressin response, VWF propeptide (VWFpp) level, and platelet-derived VWF mRNA level. RESULTS Fourteen VWF mutations were identified in 17 of 23 index cases (ICs) (aged 5-17 years), including four that were previously unreported (L60P, nt1658 insT, Q1388X, and C2237F). VWFpp levels were lower in ICs than in unaffected controls (median 49 vs. 86 U dL(-1) , P < 0.0001). A VWFpp/VWF antigen ratio of > 1.6 was observed in eight of nine ICs with a suboptimal response to desmopressin, including four of four with the R1205H (Vicenza) mutation (median 7.9), and three of four IC with the R1315C mutation (median 1.9). The R1315C mutation was also associated with a reduced absolute VWFpp level (median 32 U dL(-1) ), a previously unreported finding. The amount of platelet-derived VWF mRNA was significantly reduced in individuals with nonsense mutations. CONCLUSIONS Increased VWF clearance and intracellular retention are important mechanisms underlying type 1 VWD in pediatric patients, concordant with the observations of larger, predominantly adult, cohort studies. Additionally, in some patients, nonsense-mediated decay of mutant mRNA transcripts may be contributory. Several mechanisms underlie the variable phenotype associated with the R1315C mutation. The potential utility of VWFpp as an independent marker of VWF biosynthesis and release warrants further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- J D Robertson
- Haematology Service, Division of Oncology, Royal Children's Hospital Department of Haematology, Pathology Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
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Castaman G, Rodeghiero F. Advances in the diagnosis and management of type 1 von Willebrand disease. Expert Rev Hematol 2011; 4:95-106. [PMID: 21322782 DOI: 10.1586/ehm.11.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Von Willebrand disease (VWD) is an autosomally inherited bleeding disorder caused by a deficiency and/or abnormality of von Willebrand factor (VWF). VWF is a multimeric adhesive protein that plays an important role in primary hemostasis by promoting platelet adhesion to the subendothelium at sites of vascular injury and platelet-platelet interactions at high-shear rate conditions. Furthermore, VWF is the carrier of factor VIII, thus indirectly contributing to the coagulation process. Most cases have a partial quantitative deficiency of VWF (type 1 VWD) with variable bleeding tendency, whereas qualitative variants (type 2 VWD), due to a dysfunctional VWF, are clinically more homogeneous and account for approximately 20-30% of cases. Type 3 VWD is rare and these patients have moderate-to-severe bleeding diathesis, display a recessive pattern of inheritance and virtual absence of VWF. The diagnosis of VWD may be difficult, especially in type 1 disease, since the laboratory phenotype of the disorder is very heterogeneous and confounded by the influence on VWF levels by factors outside the VWF gene (e.g., blood group). An array of tests are usually required to characterize the several types of the disorder in order to predict the best treatment modality. Desmopressin is the treatment of choice for most patients with type 1 VWD because it corrects the the dual defects of hemostasis, that is, abnormal coagulation expressed by low levels of factor VIII and abnormal platelet adhesion expressed by the reduction of VWF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giancarlo Castaman
- Department of Cell Therapy and Hematology and Hemophilia and Thrombosis Center, San Bortolo Hospital, 36100 Vicenza, Italy.
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Johansson AM, Halldén C, Säll T, Lethagen S. Variation in the VWF Gene in Swedish Patients with Type 1 von Willebrand Disease. Ann Hum Genet 2011; 75:447-55. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-1809.2011.00652.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Daidone V, Gallinaro L, Grazia Cattini M, Pontara E, Bertomoro A, Pagnan A, Casonato A. An apparently silent nucleotide substitution (c.7056C>T) in the von Willebrand factor gene is responsible for type 1 von Willebrand disease. Haematologica 2011; 96:881-7. [PMID: 21393328 DOI: 10.3324/haematol.2010.036848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nucleotide variations not changing protein sequences are considered silent mutations; accumulating data suggest that they can, however, be important in human diseases. DESIGN AND METHODS We report an altered splicing process induced by a silent substitution (c.7056C>T) in the von Willebrand factor gene in a case of type 1 von Willebrand disease originally classified as lacking von Willebrand factor mutations. RESULTS The c.7056C>T synonymous substitution introduces a new donor splice site within exon 41, leading to messenger RNA lacking nucleotides 7055-7081 (c.7055_7081del). The encoded von Willebrand factor protein is predicted to lack amino acids 2352-2360 in the B2 domain. The patient's von Willebrand disease phenotype was characterized by reduced plasma and platelet von Willebrand factor, which was normal in function and multimer structure. In vitro expression studies demonstrated that co-transfection of equimolar c.7055_7081del and wild-type von Willebrand factor (mimicking the patient's heterozygous state) induced a 50% lower von Willebrand factor secretion than the wild type, while almost no von Willebrand factor secretion was seen with the mutated von Willebrand factor alone. The secreted von Willebrand factor was structurally and functionally normal, suggesting that the c.7056C>T substitution behaves like a loss-of-function allele. CONCLUSIONS This is the first report of a synonymous von Willebrand factor substitution being responsible for von Willebrand disease. Our findings suggest the need to reconsider the role of von Willebrand factor polymorphisms in von Willebrand disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viviana Daidone
- Department of Cardiologic, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences, University of Padua Medical School, via Ospedale Civile 105, Padova, Italy
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Mikhail S, Kouides P. von Willebrand disease in the pediatric and adolescent population. J Pediatr Adolesc Gynecol 2010; 23:S3-10. [PMID: 20934894 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpag.2010.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2010] [Accepted: 08/11/2010] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies indicate that bleeding disorders, particularly von Willebrand disease (VWD) is more prevalent than previously thought in adolescents with menorrhagia. Menorrhagia management in undiagnosed disorders of hemostasis may be associated with unwanted risks and complications. The prevalence of symptomatic VWD in the pediatric primary care setting appears to be 0.11% (95% CI, 0.04-0.25%). Studies evaluating the prevalence of VWD in adolescents with menorrhagia have included over 500 patients with a prevalence range from 3 to 36% depending on the clinical setting studied, with the highest prevalence seen in adolescents referred to an outpatient Hemophilia Center, while the lowest prevalence is seen in the acute hospital setting. Recently, the diagnosis of VWD has been facilitated by the use of pediatric bleeding questionnaires that have proved useful in quantifying the severity of bleeding symptoms. Treatment of VWD is often complex because a combination of therapies is often required. Potential treatment options include estrogen-progesterone preparations, desmopressin, antifibrinolytic agents and von Willebrand factor concentrates. More research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of the various treatment modalities in the adolescent population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sameh Mikhail
- Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
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Plasma von Willebrand factor multimer quantitative analysis by in-gel immunostaining and infrared fluorescent imaging. Thromb Res 2010; 126:543-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.thromres.2010.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2010] [Revised: 09/09/2010] [Accepted: 09/15/2010] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Klarmann D, Eggert C, Geisen C, Becker S, Seifried E, Klingebiel T, Kreuz W. Association of ABO(H) and I blood group system development with von Willebrand factor and Factor VIII plasma levels in children and adolescents. Transfusion 2010; 50:1571-80. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1537-2995.2010.02604.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Affiliation(s)
- E J Favaloro
- Department of Haematology, Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research (ICPMR), Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, Australia.
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Modifiers of von Willebrand factor identified by natural variation in inbred strains of mice. Blood 2009; 114:5368-74. [PMID: 19789385 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2009-07-233213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Type 1 von Willebrand disease (VWD) is the most common inherited human bleeding disorder. However, diagnosis is complicated by incomplete penetrance and variable expressivity, as well as wide variation in von Willebrand factor (VWF) levels among the normal population. Previous work has exploited the highly variable plasma VWF levels among inbred strains of mice to identify 2 major regulators, Mvwf1 and Mvwf2 (modifier of VWF). Mvwf1 is a glycosyltransferase and Mvwf2 is a natural variant in Vwf that alters biosynthesis. We report the identification of an additional alteration at the Vwf locus (Mvwf5), as well as 2 loci unlinked to Vwf (Mvwf6-7) using a backcross approach with the inbred mouse strains WSB/EiJ and C57BL/6J. Through positional cloning, we show that Mvwf5 is a cis-regulatory variant that alters Vwf mRNA expression. A similar mechanism could potentially explain a significant percentage of human VWD cases, especially those with no detectable mutation in the VWF coding sequence. Mvwf6 displays conservation of synteny with potential VWF modifier loci identified in human pedigrees, suggesting that its ortholog may modify VWF in human populations.
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Abstract
The use of molecular diagnostic techniques in clinical and research hemostasis laboratories is increasing as genetic factors that affect the procoagulant and anticoagulant systems are identified. Many of these molecular alterations are associated with thrombotic tendencies, whereas others tip the hemostatic balance in favor of bleeding. In either scenario, molecular testing may serve as a primary diagnostic modality or may provide information that complements clot-based "functional" assays. The clinical application of DNA-based testing continues to expand since the discoveries of the factor V Leiden and prothrombin G20210A gene mutations. Indications for genetic testing continue to evolve as the underlying causes of hemostatic disorders are better understood. Further development of molecular assays depends on their proved utility in the clinical management and treatment of these complex multifactorial disorders.
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Eikenboom J, Hilbert L, Ribba AS, Hommais A, Habart D, Messenger S, Al-Buhairan A, Guilliatt A, Lester W, Mazurier C, Meyer D, Fressinaud E, Budde U, Will K, Schneppenheim R, Obser T, Marggraf O, Eckert E, Castaman G, Rodeghiero F, Federici AB, Batlle J, Goudemand J, Ingerslev J, Lethagen S, Hill F, Peake I, Goodeve A. Expression of 14 von Willebrand factor mutations identified in patients with type 1 von Willebrand disease from the MCMDM-1VWD study. J Thromb Haemost 2009; 7:1304-12. [PMID: 19566550 DOI: 10.1111/j.1538-7836.2009.03486.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Candidate von Willebrand factor (VWF) mutations were identified in 70% of index cases in the European study 'Molecular and Clinical Markers for the Diagnosis and Management of type 1 von Willebrand Disease'. The majority of these were missense mutations. OBJECTIVES To assess whether 14 representative missense mutations are the cause of the phenotype observed in the patients and to examine their mode of pathogenicity. METHODS Transfection experiments were performed with full-length wild-type or mutant VWF cDNA for these 14 missense mutations. VWF antigen levels were measured, and VWF multimer analysis was performed on secreted and intracellular VWF. RESULTS For seven of the missense mutations (G160W, N166I, L2207P, C2257S, C2304Y, G2441C, and C2477Y), we found marked intracellular retention and impaired secretion of VWF, major loss of high molecular weight multimers in transfections of mutant constructs alone, and virtually normal multimers in cotransfections with wild-type VWF, establishing the pathogenicity of these mutations. Four of the mutations (R2287W, R2464C, G2518S, and Q2520P) were established as being very probably causative, on the basis of a mild reduction in the secreted VWF or on characteristic faster-running multimeric bands. For three candidate changes (G19R, P2063S, and R2313H), the transfection results were indistinguishable from wild-type recombinant VWF and we could not prove these changes to be pathogenic. Other mechanisms not explored using this in vitro expression system may be responsible for pathogenicity. CONCLUSIONS The pathogenic nature of 11 of 14 candidate missense mutations identified in patients with type 1 VWD was confirmed. Intracellular retention of mutant VWF is the predominant responsible mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Eikenboom
- Department of Thrombosis and Haemostasis, Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands.
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Favaloro EJ, Thom J, Patterson D, Just S, Dixon T, Koutts J, Baccala M, Rowell J, Baker R. Desmopressin therapy to assist the functional identification and characterisation of von Willebrand disease: Differential utility from combining two (VWF:CB and VWF:RCo) von Willebrand factor activity assays? Thromb Res 2009; 123:862-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.thromres.2008.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2008] [Revised: 09/16/2008] [Accepted: 10/14/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Abstract
Abstract
A sufficiently low level of von Willebrand factor (VWF) predisposes to bleeding that can be quite serious, and low VWF is a diagnostic feature of von Willebrand disease (VWD) type 1, which is characterized by partial quantitative deficiency of VWF. Recent groundbreaking studies of patients with VWD type 1 have delineated several pathophysiologic mechanisms that determine the plasma concentration of VWF, but the relationship between VWF level and the likelihood of bleeding remains less well understood. In part, this problem reflects the broad range of VWF levels in the population, so that the distinction between “normal” and “low” is arbitrary. The risk of bleeding certainly increases as the VWF level decreases, but the relationship is not very strong until the VWF level is very low. Furthermore, mild bleeding symptoms are common in apparently healthy populations and have many causes other than defects in VWF, which can make it impossible to attribute bleeding to any single factor, such as low VWF. These difficulties might be resolved by an epidemiologic approach to VWF and other risk factors for bleeding, analogous to how physicians manage multiple risk factors for cardiovascular disease or venous thromboembolism.
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Abstract
Abstract
The wide clinical spectrum of von Willebrand disease (VWD), its complex pathophysiology and its classification into distinct quantitative (type 1 or type 3) and qualitative (type 2) types with further subtle distinctions have prevented most clinicians from establishing a straightforward approach to diagnosing and treating this inherited bleeding disorder. The results of studies involving large cohorts of patients with a wide range of bleeding manifestations and variable von Willebrand factor (VWF) reduction have recently become available. These data have allowed the proposal of minimal criteria for a clinically useful diagnosis and for differentiating patients with mild VWD from subjects with borderline or only slightly reduced VWF levels who will not benefit from a specific diagnosis. These criteria are based on measurement of VWF ristocetin cofactor (VWF:RCo), VWF antigen (VWF:Ag), factor VIII and a standardized bleeding score (BS). Demonstration of the inheritance of the disorder could help to classify patients for whom insufficient hemostatic challenges may produce a falsely reassuring BS (like in children). Using this approach, mild VWD appears to be mostly composed of type 1 cases. Complemented by the results of desmopressin trial infusion, these parameters form the basis for a clinically oriented classification of all forms of VWD and may be useful for selecting the best treatment according to the severity of the disease. Although few molecular data have revealed practical utility, there is no doubt that the clarification of the molecular pathophysiology of VWD has allowed the unification of this complex disorder into a simple conceptual framework. This framework underlies the proposed utilization of simple phenotypic markers for optimizing treatments in individual patients.
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Favaloro EJ. Detailed von Willebrand factor multimer analysis in patients with von Willebrand disease in the European study, molecular and clinical markers for the diagnosis and management of type 1 von Willebrand disease (MCMDM-1VWD): a rebuttal. J Thromb Haemost 2008; 6:1999-2001; author reply 2002-3. [PMID: 18647226 DOI: 10.1111/j.1538-7836.2008.03090.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
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BOLTON-MAGGS PHB, LILLICRAP D, GOUDEMAND J, BERNTORP E. von Willebrand disease update: diagnostic and treatment dilemmas. Haemophilia 2008; 14 Suppl 3:56-61. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2516.2008.01713.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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Collins PW, Cumming AM, Goodeve AC, Lillicrap D. Type 1 von Willebrand disease: application of emerging data to clinical practice. Haemophilia 2008; 14:685-96. [PMID: 18510569 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2516.2008.01757.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
There has been much recent data published on type 1 von Willebrand disease (VWD) predominantly from three multi-centre cohort studies. These data have influenced a revision of the classification of type 1 VWD and have important implications for the management of this disorder. Patients with low von Willebrand factor (VWF) levels tend to have VWF mutations and VWD is transmitted predictably within families. In patients with VWF levels close to the lower end of the normal range, candidate mutations are found less often, ABO blood group is a more important factor and the disease has variable heritability within families. The importance of bleeding symptoms, in addition to VWF levels, in the diagnosis of type 1 VWD has been highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- P W Collins
- Arthur Bloom Haemophilia Centre, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, UK.
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Nichols WL, Hultin MB, James AH, Manco-Johnson MJ, Montgomery RR, Ortel TL, Rick ME, Sadler JE, Weinstein M, Yawn BP. von Willebrand disease (VWD): evidence-based diagnosis and management guidelines, the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) Expert Panel report (USA). Haemophilia 2008; 14:171-232. [PMID: 18315614 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2516.2007.01643.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 580] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- W L Nichols
- Special Coagulation Laboratory, Division of Hematopathology, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.
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James PD, Notley C, Hegadorn C, Poon MC, Walker I, Rapson D, Lillicrap D. Challenges in defining type 2M von Willebrand disease: results from a Canadian cohort study. J Thromb Haemost 2007; 5:1914-22. [PMID: 17596142 DOI: 10.1111/j.1538-7836.2007.02666.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/METHODS In order to better characterize the genotype-phenotype correlation in type 2M von Willebrand disease (VWD), we sequenced the coding region for the mature subunit of the von Willebrand factor (VWF) gene (exons 18-52, including exon/intron boundaries) in 16 index cases originally submitted to the Canadian Type 1 VWD Study as type 1 VWD, but reclassified as type 2M VWD on the basis of phenotype (excessive mucocutaneous bleeding and von Willebrand factor: antigen (VWF:Ag) and/or von Willebrand factor: ristocetin cofactor (VWF:RCo) between 0.05 and 0.50 IU mL(-1) on at least two occasions and RCo/Ag ratio < 0.6 and no loss of high molecular weight multimers). Available family members (16 affected, 23 unaffected and six unknown) were sequenced for identified mutations. RESULTS We identified eight different missense mutations (R854Q, T1054M, R1315C, R1374C, R1374H, L1382P, S2179F, and T2647M) within these 16 families. We were significantly more likely to identify a VWF mutation in cases with RCo/Ag ratios < 0.50 (P < 0.05, chi-squared test). Importantly, every index case with an RCo/Ag ratio < 0.40 (4/4 index cases) had a mutation identified within the A1 domain, in contrast to 1/12 cases with an RCo/Ag ratio > 0.40. Difficulties with the standardization of the VWF:RCo may be responsible for the heterogeneity in cases with RCo/Ag ratios between 0.40 and 0.60. CONCLUSIONS The genotype-phenotype correlation for cases with RCo/Ag ratios < 0.40 is clear. On the basis of our results, the phenotypic definition of type 2M VWD may need to be more stringent, and should be the subject of an international standardization initiative.
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Affiliation(s)
- P D James
- Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
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Abstract
Since its first description in 1926, the precise nature and indeed significance of von Willebrand factor (VWD) in the area of human bleeding has been unsure and often controversial. The recognition of VWD as a distinct entity in blood and the cloning of the von Willebrand factor (VWF) gene in the 1980s encouraged both phenotypic and genotypic studies, culminating in 1994 with the recognition, by the VWF subcommittee of the Scientific and Standardization Committee (SSC) of International Society of Thrombosis and Haemostasy (ISTH), of three types of VWD, characterized by severe plasma VWF deficiency (type 3), functionally deficient plasma VWF (type 2) and reduced (below normal) levels of plasma VWF, which is functionally essentially normal (type 1; 70% of all cases). Since then, whereas gene analysis has recognized VWF gene (VWF) mutations in most individuals with type 3 and type 2 disease, the latter mutations correlating well with recognized functional domains within the VWF protein, few mutations have been reported in cases with type 1 VWD. This led to speculation that other factors, particularly ABO blood group, may be primarily responsible for the majority of such patients, perhaps combined with a generic bleeding tendency throughout the normal population. Recent large studies in Europe and Canada have considerably clarified this situation, revealing that the majority of type 1 VWD is associated with mutations within VWF. The role of these mutations in the aetiology of the disease opens up new approaches to the study of the diagnosis and treatment of the condition. Conversely, the lack of a change in the VWF gene in many recruited families will lead to enhanced efforts to identify non-VWF gene causes both at the genetic and epigenetic level.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Peake
- Academic Unit of Haematology, University of Sheffield School of Medicine and Biomedical Science, Sheffield, UK.
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SADLER JE. Interesting variations on how a disease is defined: comparisons of von Willebrand disease and Glanzmann thrombasthenia. Reply to a rebuttal. J Thromb Haemost 2007. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1538-7836.2007.02397.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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James PD, Notley C, Hegadorn C, Leggo J, Tuttle A, Tinlin S, Brown C, Andrews C, Labelle A, Chirinian Y, O'Brien L, Othman M, Rivard G, Rapson D, Hough C, Lillicrap D. The mutational spectrum of type 1 von Willebrand disease: Results from a Canadian cohort study. Blood 2007; 109:145-54. [PMID: 17190853 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2006-05-021105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 216] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
In order to evaluate the changes within the VWF gene that might contribute to the pathogenesis of type 1 von Willebrand disease (VWD), a large multicenter Canadian study was undertaken. We present data from the sequence analysis of the VWF gene in 123 type 1 VWD index cases and their families. We have identified putative mutations within the VWF gene in 63% (n = 78) of index cases, leaving 37% (n = 45) with no identified changes. These changes comprise 50 different putative mutations: 31 (62%) missense mutations, 8 (16%) changes involving the VWF transcriptional regulatory region, 5 (10%) small deletions/insertions, 5 (10%) splicing consensus sequence mutations, and 1 nonsense mutation. Twenty-one of the index cases had more than one putative VWF mutation identified. We were somewhat more likely to identify putative mutations in cases with lower VWF levels, and the contribution of other factors, such as ABO blood group, seems more important in milder cases. Taken as a whole, our data support a complex spectrum of molecular pathology resulting in type 1 VWD. In more severe cases, genetic changes are common within the VWF gene and are highly penetrant. In milder cases, the genetic determinants are more complex and involve factors outside of the VWF gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula D James
- Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada K7L 3N6
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