vWFhaltige

vWFhaltige is a German-language descriptor used to denote substances, preparations, or samples that contain von Willebrand factor (vWF). The term is descriptive rather than a disease or condition and is commonly found in clinical and laboratory contexts.

Von Willebrand factor is a large multimeric glycoprotein produced primarily by endothelial cells and megakaryocytes. In plasma it circulates as multimers and plays a key role in hemostasis by promoting platelet adhesion to exposed subendothelial collagen through interaction with the platelet receptor GPIb-IX-V. vWF also stabilizes factor VIII, protecting it from proteolysis.

In the context of vWFhaltige preparations, the focus is on materials that have measurable vWF content. This includes plasma-derived and recombinant vWF concentrates used for therapeutic purposes, as well as platelet releasates or plasma fractions that retain vWF. The clinical relevance of vWFhaltige products is tied to the presence and activity of vWF, particularly the distribution of high-molecular-weight multimers, which are more hemostatically active.

Analytical evaluation of vWFhaltige substances typically involves quantifying vWF antigen (VWF:Ag), assessing functional activity (for example, ristocetin cofactor activity, VWF:RCo), and examining multimeric patterns. Quality control also considers the integrity of multimer distribution, absence of contaminants, and compatibility with other coagulation factors, notably factor VIII.

Clinically, vWFhaltige products are relevant for treating von Willebrand disease and certain bleeding disorders where vWF activity is compromised. Safety and regulatory considerations include donor screening, pathogen reduction, and standardization of potency across different product types.

Etymologically, the adjective vWFhaltige appears in German-speaking medical literature to describe samples or preparations that contain von Willebrand factor.