What might be a consequence of untreated Von Willebrand disease?

Von Willebrand disease is a bleeding disorder caused by a deficiency or dysfunction of von Willebrand factor, a blood protein that is crucial for platelet adhesion and coagulation. One of the primary consequences of untreated Von Willebrand disease is excessive bleeding. This may manifest as frequent nosebleeds, easy bruising, heavy menstrual periods in women, and prolonged bleeding after surgeries or injuries.

The underlying issue in Von Willebrand disease is the inability of the platelets to effectively adhere to the site of a vascular injury, which is essential for forming a stable blood clot. When the von Willebrand factor is inadequate or dysfunctional, it compromises the body's ability to stop bleeding, leading to a higher risk of spontaneous and persistent bleeding episodes.

In comparison, other options do not typically apply to Von Willebrand disease. For instance, dehydration is not a direct consequence of this condition; rather, it is more associated with other health issues or specific fluid management problems. Increased platelet counts are not characteristic of Von Willebrand disease, as this condition does not typically cause an elevation in platelet levels; it often presents with a normal or even decreased platelet count due to the ineffective clotting process. High blood pressure is unrelated to the pathophysiology of Von Willebrand disease and does not