Can von Willebrand disease be investigated on combined hormonal contraceptives?

STUDY

OBJECTIVE

To review the medical literature and determine whether testing for von Willebrand disease can be performed in adolescents using combined hormonal contraceptives (CHC).

DESIGN

Literature review where Embase and Medline were searched using the key words "von Willebrand factor," "von Willebrand disease," "contraceptive agents," and "menorrhagia." Articles were included in the review if they were controlled trials comparing a current form of CHC versus a control group and testing for von Willebrand factor was performed and reported.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Impact of combined hormonal contraceptives on von Willebrand factor antigen. Secondary outcomes included effects on Factor VIII and von Willebrand factor activity known as the Ristocetin cofactor.

RESULTS

Seven articles met inclusion criteria. All seven assessed VWF Ag with CHC use; six of the seven demonstrated no change and one, Gevers Leuven, demonstrated a significant decrease after CHC use. Three studies measured Factor VIII and showed no significant change with use. One study by Kadir assessed the Ristocetin cofactor and also failed to demonstrate change on CHC.

CONCLUSION

From the literature it appears that adolescents, assessed for menorrhagia and already on combined hormonal contraceptives, can be tested for von Willebrand disease if this diagnosis is suspected by the physician. By allowing adolescents to remain on combined hormonal contraceptives during testing, one avoids the risk of recurrent and severe menorrhagia which could result in admission and transfusion.