Treatment of Von Willebrand´s disease with DDAVP

Abstract

Von Willebrand´s disease is the most common inherited bleeding disorder caused by quantitative or qualitative defects of Von Willebrand factor (VWF). Type 1 accounts for at least 75% of cases. For the last 20 years desmopressin (DDAVP) has been used in this group to treat spontaneous bleeding episodes and for prophylaxis during invasive procedures. The objectives of this article are: to review the use of DDAVP, it´s cost-benefit relationship, and promote its use to avoid trasmissible infections from the use of blood products. We briefly review the classification and pathophysiology of the different subtypes and their appropriate treatments. We include a simple and safe scheme for the treatment of patients who respond to DDAVP.