Versiti’s new Anti-von Willebrand Factor Antibody Assay (IgG, IgM) overcomes this limitation by identifying more potential pathways for anti-VWF antibody detection. This innovative assay detects both inhibitory and non-inhibitory antibodies that bind VWF, leading to increased clearance, and thus supporting a diagnosis of acquired von Willebrand disease. Patients who may benefit from this assay will present with a recent history of unexplained bleeding symptoms and low VWF activity, who may or may not have another pre-existing condition. It may also be utilized for patients with type 3 von Willebrand disease who are suspected of developing an antibody to VWF replacement therapy.

While the Anti-VWF Antibody Assay is not part of the reflexive panel, it may be recommended if aVWD is suspected following inconclusive results from Versiti’s VWD Diagnostic Evaluation.

Because there are multiple disease associations with acquired von Willebrand disease, evaluation for an underlying associated illness will be indicated where diagnosis is suspected.