Short bowel syndrome causing bleeding diathesis and profound vitamin deficiency in pregnancy

Extensive bowel resection may lead to a state of inadequate nutrient absorption and malnutrition known as short bowel syndrome. Deficiencies in fat-soluble vitamins may occur from this condition, with sequelae such as a bleeding diathesis. Maternal vitamin deficiencies also have been associated with fetal anomalies.

A young gravid patient with a history of neonatal bowel resection presented with bleeding diathesis. She subsequently was found to have profound vitamin deficiencies and delivered a newborn with multiple anomalies.

Preconceptional counseling, nutritional status evaluation, and concomitant management with a gastroenterologist are essential to optimize pregnancy outcome for patients with a history of extensive bowel resection.