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Cutaneous reactions associated with vitamin K1
K Wilkins1, J DeKoven, D Assaad
1Department of Dermatology, Sunnybrook and Women's College Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery
|September 26, 2000
Summary
Adverse cutaneous reactions to Vitamin K1 (phytonadione) can present in varied ways and are often overlooked. Prompt recognition and consideration of these rare reactions are crucial for effective management.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Vitamin K1 (phytonadione) is essential for treating coagulation disorders.
- Adverse cutaneous reactions to Vitamin K1 are uncommon and can be misdiagnosed due to varied presentations.
Observation:
- A patient developed a persistent eczematous plaque after subcutaneous Vitamin K1 injection.
- Literature review identified localized eczematous and morphea-form reactions, plus rare maculopapular eruptions.
Findings:
- Eczematous reactions appear at injection sites within a median of 13 days and can persist for months.
- Morphea-form reactions present as localized patches, often taking months to appear and having a poor prognosis for resolution.
- Reaction onset and severity vary widely with Vitamin K1 dosage.
Implications:
- Considering Vitamin K1 as a potential cause is key for diagnosing these cutaneous reactions.
- Management can be challenging due to the slow resolution and potential for chronic sclerodermoid changes.
- Early diagnosis and awareness are vital for both clinicians and patients.
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