A Study Of Von-Willebrand Factor Antigen Levels And Some Haemostatic Parameters Among Blood Donors At University Of Uyo Teaching Hospital (Uuth)

📄 Project Abstract

The von Willebrand Factor (vWF) is a large procoagulant multimeric glycoprotein synthesized exclusively in endothelial cells and megakaryocytes and stored in the Weibel -Palade bodies and platelet -granules, respectively1. It serves two major functions in haemostasis, as carrier for VIII and as the ligand mediating platelet GPIb adhesion to collagen.2 The mechanisms that control plasma vWF: Ag concentration are multifactorial and poorly elucidated. Approximately 70% of variability is due to genetic factors3, of which the ABO blood group has been identified as the major influence.4 Several studies have consistently reported that group O subjects have lower plasma vWF levels than their non -group O counterparts.5 From those reports, it was also observed that the normal range of vWF: Ag in group O individuals extends below 50 IU/dl, which is commonly accepted as the lower limit of normal. Accordingly, O group individuals may or may not be at greater risk for bleeding and are more likely t...