Final answer:
vWD is associated with a deficiency in the von Willebrand factor, a secondary factor essential for platelet adhesion and the coagulation cascade. It is part of a spectrum of genetic disorders that affect clotting factors and blood clotting function, similar to hemophilia.
Step-by-step explanation:
von Willebrand disease (vWD) is a genetic disorder that leads to an inadequate production of von Willebrand factor, which is a secondary factor that helps platelets stick together and adhere to the walls of blood vessels, initiating clot formation. The von Willebrand factor is essential in the blood clotting process as it binds to other proteins, such as fibrinogen, which is instrumental in the coagulation cascade. Therefore, when considering vWD in relation to the clotting factors, the correct answer is C. Von Willebrand Factor.
Blood must clot to prevent excess blood loss, with platelets playing a critical role in wound healing. However, without sufficient von Willebrand factor, platelets cannot form the initial platelet plug, leading to issues with proper blood clotting.
Proper functioning of the clotting factors, including Vitamin K and calcium (factor IV), is essential for the clotting process. Hemophilia, for example, is a related disorder where there's an inadequate production of clotting factors such as factor VIII (Hemophilia A) and factor IX (Hemophilia B), leading to bleeding complications.