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Published on: September 30, 2021
No child should suffer from vitamin K deficiency-induced bleeding disorders
Masazumi Miyahara1, Kyoko Osaki1
1Department of Pediatrics Okanami General Hospital Iga Japan.
Insights
A neonate developed intracranial hemorrhage from vitamin K deficiency despite oral prophylaxis. Current vitamin K deficiency-bleeding prevention programs may be insufficient, necessitating improved strategies.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Hematology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Vitamin K deficiency-bleeding (VKDB) is a preventable condition in newborns.
- Japanese guidelines recommend oral vitamin K2 (menaquinone-4) prophylaxis for VKDB prevention.
- Despite prophylaxis, breakthrough bleeding events can occur.
Observation:
- An 11-day-old male neonate presented with intracranial hemorrhage.
- The neonate had received oral vitamin K2 (menaquinone-4) prophylaxis as per Japanese guidelines.
- This indicates a potential failure of the current prophylactic regimen.
Findings:
- The case highlights that oral vitamin K2 prophylaxis alone may not fully prevent VKDB.
- Intracranial hemorrhage occurred despite adherence to established prophylactic protocols.
- This suggests limitations in the current standard of care for VKDB prevention.
Implications:
- Current VKDB prophylaxis programs may require revision to enhance efficacy.
- Combined intramuscular and oral vitamin K administration should be explored for improved protection.
- Further research is needed to optimize VKDB prevention strategies for neonates.
Abstract:
We encountered an 11-day-old male neonate with vitamin K deficiency-induced intracranial hemorrhage, despite receiving oral vitamin K2 (menaquinone-4) prophylaxis according to Japanese guidelines. This case suggests that the current vitamin K deficiency-bleeding prophylaxis programs cannot prevent bleeding completely. Better prophylaxis programs using both intramuscular and oral administration should be considered.
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