Haematology mnemonic

Causes of a raised bleeding time with normal platelet count

The mnemonic

Von Willebrand, Aspirin, Glanzmann

What each word stands for

  • Von WillebrandDefective platelet adhesion via vWF
  • AspirinIrreversible COX inhibition impairs platelet function
  • GlanzmannGpIIb/IIIa deficiency, defective aggregation

Why it matters clinically

Points to a platelet function disorder when counts are normal but mucosal bleeding occurs.

Where it stops being reliable

Bernard-Soulier disease and uraemia also prolong bleeding time and are not listed.

Teaching aid, still awaiting independent review. Confirm facts in a standard source.

More mnemonics

Common questions

What is the Haematology mnemonic?

Von Willebrand, Aspirin, Glanzmann. It helps you recall: Causes of a raised bleeding time with normal platelet count.

What does "Von Willebrand" stand for?

Defective platelet adhesion via vWF

What does "Aspirin" stand for?

Irreversible COX inhibition impairs platelet function

What does "Glanzmann" stand for?

GpIIb/IIIa deficiency, defective aggregation

What are all the parts of the Von Willebrand, Aspirin, Glanzmann mnemonic?

Von Willebrand: Defective platelet adhesion via vWF; Aspirin: Irreversible COX inhibition impairs platelet function; Glanzmann: GpIIb/IIIa deficiency, defective aggregation.

Which topic does this mnemonic belong to?

It belongs to Haematology in Pathology.

Where does this mnemonic stop being reliable?

Bernard-Soulier disease and uraemia also prolong bleeding time and are not listed.

How is this useful clinically?

Points to a platelet function disorder when counts are normal but mucosal bleeding occurs.

How do I make this mnemonic stick?

Say it aloud, write it from memory tomorrow, then again in a week. Then test yourself on a Pathology question about Haematology.

Is this a standard mnemonic?

It is a teaching aid written or adapted by our team. Some resemble ones students share informally. Check any fact that matters in a standard source.