von Willebrand factor and platelet function.

The complex interactions of platelets, von Willebrand factor (VWF), and vascular endothelium have been explored by many investigators during the last decade. With the development of better methods to assess these components has come an increased recognition of diseases associated with defects in the platelet-VWF interaction. Moreover, alternative therapeutic approaches have become available for the clinician who treats patients with disorders of VWF function.