Integrated management of von Willebrand disease in women: insights from Prof. Sergio Siragusa

Von Willebrand disease (VWD) is one of the most common congenital bleeding disorders, yet it remains among the least recognized. It is caused by a quantitative or qualitative defect of von Willebrand factor, a key protein involved in the blood coagulation process. This alteration leads to an increased tendency to bleed, which may occur mildly and intermittently, often delaying diagnosis.
As explained by Prof. Sergio Siragusa, Director of the Hematology Unit at AOU “Giaccone” in Palermo, despite its relatively high prevalence in the general population—estimated at about 1 in 1,000 individuals—VWD remains poorly known, particularly in the gynecological setting. In women, it can manifest during the reproductive years with menorrhagia or menstrual irregularities that are frequently mistaken for physiological conditions.

Early recognition of these symptoms is essential to guide diagnosis and prevent potential complications, especially during critical situations such as childbirth or surgical procedures. According to Prof. Siragusa, effective management of this disorder requires a multidisciplinary and collaborative approach among specialists.

“The menstrual period may represent one of the first symptoms of the disease. This is why it is important for gynecologists to be familiar with the condition and to recognize it through both personal and family medical history.”

The integrated management of von Willebrand disease thus represents a virtuous model of interdisciplinary cooperation, where the synergy between medical specializations improves diagnosis, reduces risks, and optimizes therapeutic pathways.

Kedrion continues to collaborate with the scientific community to promote the dissemination of knowledge and best clinical practices, fostering a more informed and shared approach to the management of congenital bleeding disorders.