Establishing reference intervals for von Willebrand factor multimers

Background: von Willebrand factor (VWF) multimers (VWF:MM) methodologies are technically difficult, laborious, time consuming, non-standardized and results vary between laboratories. A new semi automated VWF:MM assay is available for routine use (Sebia). Due to lack of reference values for VWF:MM fractions, results interpretation can be challenging in some cases. The aim of this study was to determine reference intervals for low molecular weight (LMWM), intermediate molecular weight (IMWM) and high molecular weight (HMWM) multimers. Methods: By the international cooperation initiated between 4 countries (Estonia, Latvia, France, and USA) 131 samples of relatively healthy individuals were analyzed for VWF:MM (in total 51 males and 80 non-pregnant females aged 17-69 years). Reference intervals were calculated according to CLSI C28-A3 standard. Results: The proposed reference intervals for VWF:MM were calculated for LMWM 10.4-22.5%, IMWM 22.6-37.6%, HMWM 45.6-66.6%. Age related differences were seen in IMWM and HMWM (p