What test result is typically normal in patients with Von Willebrand disease?

Prepare for the AAB Medical Technologist (MT) Generalist Exam with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question includes hints and explanations to boost your understanding. Get exam-ready now!

In Von Willebrand disease, patients typically exhibit a normal Prothrombin Time (PT) result. Von Willebrand disease primarily affects the function of von Willebrand factor, which plays a crucial role in platelet adhesion and the coagulation cascade, particularly affecting the Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (APTT) due to its interaction with factor VIII. Consequently, when evaluating a patient for Von Willebrand disease, it is expected that the PT will remain within normal limits because the extrinsic pathway and the common pathway of coagulation—reflected by the PT—are not directly affected by the absence or dysfunction of von Willebrand factor.

In contrast to PT, APTT is usually prolonged in individuals with Von Willebrand disease because it is sensitive to deficiencies in factor VIII, which is influenced by the levels of von Willebrand factor. Complete Blood Count (CBC) and Red Blood Cell count are often normal in Von Willebrand disease as they assess different components unrelated to the clotting function directly affected by this condition. Hence, recognizing that PT remains normal provides valuable insight in differentiating Von Willebrand disease from other bleeding disorders that significantly affect coagulation pathways.

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