Severe Coagulation Dysfunction caused by Vitamin K Deficiency in an Elderly Patient

Area of Science:

• Internal Medicine
• Gastroenterology
• Hematology

Background:

• Vitamin K deficiency poses a significant risk for severe coagulation dysfunction, especially in surgical patients.
• Elderly individuals with comorbidities like gallstones and cholecystitis are particularly vulnerable.

Observation:

• An 84-year-old male presented with severe coagulation disorder post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) for bile duct stones.
• The patient had a history of gallstones, cholecystitis, long-term antibiotic use, poor diet, and abnormal liver function.

Findings:

• Coagulation dysfunction was attributed to vitamin K deficiency, exacerbated by medical factors.
• Intravenous vitamin K administration rapidly corrected the prothrombin time and normalized coagulation parameters the following day.

Implications:

• This case highlights the rapid onset of vitamin K deficiency-induced coagulopathy, even without overt bleeding.
• Healthcare providers must be vigilant for vitamin K deficiency risks in elderly patients with restricted diets, malabsorption, or prolonged antibiotic therapy, especially before surgical procedures.
• Prompt laboratory recognition and clinical communication are crucial for timely intervention and prevention of fatal outcomes.