Late-Onset Vitamin K Deficiency Resulting in Intracranial Bleeds: A Case Report and Literature Review

Area of Science:

• Neonatal Medicine
• Pediatric Hematology
• Clinical Case Reports

Background:

• Vitamin K deficiency is a known cause of bleeding in newborns.
• Hemorrhagic disease of the newborn can lead to severe complications if untreated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a fatal case of intracranial hemorrhage in a neonate due to vitamin K deficiency.
• To highlight the importance of vitamin K prophylaxis in preventing neonatal bleeding.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a 24-day-old male neonate.
• Clinical presentation, laboratory findings, and outcome assessment.

Main Results:

• The neonate presented with apnea, poor feeding, irritability, vomiting, and jaundice.
• Intracranial hemorrhage occurred due to likely vitamin K deficiency from lack of birth prophylaxis and insufficient dietary intake.
• The condition resulted in the neonate's mortality.

Conclusions:

• Vitamin K deficiency can cause severe intracranial hemorrhage in neonates.
• Timely vitamin K administration at birth is crucial for preventing hemorrhagic disease of the newborn.
• Inadequate neonatal nutrition can exacerbate vitamin K deficiency risks.