Endothelial cell activation was associated with occurrence, development and severity of CRS, manifested by decreased serum angiopoietin (Ang)‐1 levels and increased levels of von Willebrand Factor (VWF), Ang‐2, Ang‐2:Ang‐1, sE‐selectin, soluble intercellular adhesion molecule (sICAM‐1) and soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule (sVCAM)‐1. The gene discussed is VWF; the disease is congenital rubella syndrome.