Von Willebrand's Disease

An inherited congenital bleeding disorder that is caused by a deficiency of coagulation factor VIII, a protein that affects platelet function. The bleeding tendency manifests at an early age and is characterized by nose bleeds, easy bruising and, rarely, the appearance of small, purplish hemorrhagic spots on the skin. Bleeding in the intestinal tract during surgery and excess loss of blood during menstruation are common. The symptoms decrease in severity with age and during pregnancy. The disease is equally prevalent in men and women.