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[Hemorrhage caused by vitamin K deficiency in the post-natal period]
Minerva Pediatrica
|February 1, 1989
Insights
Delayed hemorrhagic disease in breastfed infants is linked to vitamin K deficiency. Early vitamin K prophylaxis is crucial for preventing this serious condition in newborns.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Neonatology
- Hematology
Background:
- Vitamin K deficiency is a known cause of hemorrhagic disease in newborns.
- Delayed onset of hemorrhagic disease can occur in infants not receiving vitamin K prophylaxis.
- Breastfeeding is associated with a higher risk of vitamin K deficiency.
Abstract:
The paper describes 8 cases of delayed haemorrhagic disease caused by vitamin K deficiency, occurring from 16 days to 3 months after birth and observed in 1982-87. All these infants were breast fed and had received no vitamin K prophylaxis. On the basis of these findings, the preventive role of vitamin K in breast fed infants is emphasised.