Intracranial haemorrhage is linked to late onset vitamin K deficiency in infants aged 2-24 weeks

M S Elalfy1, I A Elagouza, F A Ibrahim

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt.

Insights

Late vitamin K deficiency bleeding (VKDB) causes serious intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) in infants. This study found a high frequency of ICH in Egyptian infants, highlighting the need for improved vitamin K supplementation strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Neonatology
  • Hematology

Background:

  • Late vitamin K deficiency bleeding (VKDB) poses a significant risk for infants.
  • Intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) is a severe manifestation of VKDB, particularly in early onset cases.
  • Understanding the frequency and outcomes of ICH in infants is crucial for public health.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the frequency of intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) in infants aged 2-24 weeks.
  • To investigate the association between vitamin K deficiency and ICH in this age group.
  • To assess the outcomes of infants experiencing ICH due to late VKDB.

Main Methods:

  • A hospital-based case-control study was conducted in Cairo, Egypt.
  • The study included 40 patients with ICH and 50 age-matched controls.
  • Vitamin K levels were assessed in patients with ICH.

Main Results:

  • 21 infants with ICH had significantly low vitamin K levels.
  • Exclusive breastfeeding, prolonged diarrhea, and recent antibiotic use were more common in infants with ICH.
  • The study identified specific risk factors associated with ICH in the studied population.

Conclusions:

  • A high frequency of ICH due to late VKDB was observed in Egyptian infants (2-24 weeks).
  • Outcomes for these infants were poorer compared to international data.
  • A national survey is recommended to evaluate vitamin K prophylaxis and reduce ICH incidence.
Abstract

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