Hanebutt, F.L., Rolf, N., Loesel, A., Kuhlisch, E., Siegert, G. & Knoefler, R. (2008). Evaluation of desmospressin effects on haemostasis in children with congenital bleeding disorder. Haemophilia, 14, 524–530.

Desmopressin (DDAVP) was administered 0.3 mcg/kg IV over 30 minutes. Blood levels of coagulation factor FVIII activity, von Willebrand Factor Antigen, collagen-binding activity, and PFA-100^® closure times were measured before and at 60, 120, and 240 minutes after DDAVP administration.

• N = 51  
• AGE = Older than 2 years
• KEY DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS: 26 patients with von Willebrand disease, 15 patients with platelet function defects (PFDs)
• OTHER KEY SAMPLE CHARACTERISTICS: Inclusion baseline platelet count was higher than 50.

• LOCATION: Germany, January 2000–March 2007

• Retrospective study

• Evaluated the results of DDAVP testing in patients with congenital bleeding disorders

Twenty-four of 26 patients in the von Willebrand group (92%) had an overall positive response rate. Fourteen of 15 patients in the PFD group (93%) had a positive response. One patient in the von Willebrand group and two patients in the PFD group were nonresponders. Mild side effects of flushing or headache occurred in some patients. Side effects were not recorded exactly in the chart. Hemostatic effects differed between individuals and were dependent on coagulation disorder.

DDAVP “challenge” testing is recommended before its first therapeutic use in bleeding episodes or surgical procedures.

• No current standardization of DDAVP testing
• Small group number
• Seven-year study
• Specific pediatric subset