Haemorrhage responsive to vitamin K in a 6-week-old infant

Insights

A breast-fed infant experienced bleeding after a procedure due to a vitamin K deficiency. Testing prothrombin time or giving vitamin K is recommended for breast-fed infants to prevent bleeding complications.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Neonatology
  • Hematology

Background:

  • Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting.
  • Breast-fed infants may be at risk for vitamin K deficiency.
  • Coagulation abnormalities can lead to serious complications.

Observation:

  • A 6-week-old exclusively breast-fed infant presented with vomiting, jaundice, and irritability.
  • Hemorrhage occurred following a lumbar puncture procedure.
  • A coagulation abnormality was identified, which resolved after vitamin K administration.

Findings:

  • The infant's coagulation abnormality responded effectively to vitamin K treatment.
  • This suggests a potential vitamin K deficiency as the underlying cause.
  • Invasive procedures in this age group carry a risk of bleeding complications.

Implications:

  • Routine prothrombin time estimation before invasive procedures in exclusively breast-fed infants is advisable.
  • Prophylactic vitamin K administration should be considered for breast-fed infants when vitamin K intake is uncertain.
  • Early identification and management of coagulation abnormalities are crucial for infant health.

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