Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 22, 2026

Investigating von Willebrand Factor Pathophysiology Using a Flow Chamber Model of von Willebrand Factor-platelet String Formation
Published on: August 14, 2017
Autosomal dominant von Willebrand disease type 2M
Cedric Hermans1, Javier Batlle
1Hemostasis and Thrombosis Center, Hemophilia Clinic, St. Luc University Hospital, Avenue Hippocrate 10, Brussels, Belgium. cedric.hermans@uclouvain.be
Abstract:
von Willebrand disease (VWD) type 2M is a distinct entity and clearly differs from type 1. The genotype-phenotype correlation for cases with ristocetin cofactor activity (RCo)/antigen (Ag) ratios <0.60 is clear, whereas the von Willebrand factor (VWF):collagen binding (CB)/VWF:Ag ratio is normal in VWD 2M. Typical laboratory features of VWD type 2 M are decreased ristocetin-induced platelet aggregation in the presence of a normal or near normal VWF multimeric pattern on a low-resolution agarose gel, a poor response to desmopressin (DDAVP) of VWF:RCo, and a good response of both VWF:CB and VWF:Ag to DDAVP. The phenotypic definition of VWD type 2M may need to be more stringent and should be the subject of an international standardization initiative.
Related Concept Videos
Multiple Allele Traits
Mitral Valve Prolapse I: Introduction
Mitral Stenosis I: Introduction
Disorders of Hemostasis
Thromboembolic Disorders
Two factors primarily cause thromboembolic conditions.
Mitral Stenosis II: Clinical features and Diagnostic Tests
Formation of the Platelet Plug
As the injured blood vessel contracts, endothelial cells undergo contraction, revealing collagen fibers in the basement membrane and underlying connective tissue. Furthermore, the plasma membrane of endothelial cells becomes adhesive, preparing the site for platelet adhesion. Platelets...

