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[Hemorrhagic diathesis in a 5-week-old infant with cystic fibrosis]

Z Domagała1, T Czapla, B Baranowska-Urbaniak

  • 1Oddział Niemowlecy I Wojewódzkiego Specjalistycznego Szpitala Dzieciecego w Kielcach.

Pediatria Polska
|March 1, 1996
PubMed

Insights

A 5-week-old infant experienced bleeding issues and anemia due to vitamin K deficiency. This deficiency stemmed from an underlying pancreatic insufficiency.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Hematology
  • Endocrinology

Background:

  • Vitamin K deficiency is a critical factor in neonatal and infant bleeding disorders.
  • Pancreatic insufficiency can impair nutrient absorption, including fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin K.

Observation:

  • A 5-week-old infant presented with a significant haemorrhagic diathesis.
  • The infant also exhibited secondary anaemia, indicating blood loss.

Findings:

  • The primary cause of the haemorrhagic diathesis was identified as vitamin K deficiency.
  • This vitamin K deficiency was directly linked to intrasecretory pancreatic insufficiency.

Implications:

  • Highlights the importance of considering pancreatic function in cases of unexplained bleeding in infants.
  • Underscores the need for early diagnosis and management of pancreatic insufficiency to prevent vitamin K deficiency and related complications.
  • Suggests that screening for pancreatic exocrine function may be beneficial in infants with persistent bleeding issues.

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