Vitamin K deficiency bleeding of the newborn

Last updated: March 23, 2021

Summarytoggle arrow icon

Vitamin K deficiency bleeding of the newborn (VKDB) refers to spontaneous bleeding in a newborn caused by a deficiency of vitamin K dependent-coagulation factors. As vitamin K does not cross the placental barrier, is not present in breast milk, and is not synthesized in the sterile gut of a newborn, vitamin K levels are low in all neonates. VKDB is rare in industrialized countries because most children receive a vitamin K injection at birth. VKDB is categorized as early-onset (within 24 hours after birth), classic (within 4 weeks), or late-onset (between 2–8 months). Bleeding is usually intracranial, subgaleal, gastrointestinal, or nasal. Treatment is focused on managing the bleeding with, e.g., transfusions and restoring bleeding homeostasis by administering vitamin K.

  • Without prophylaxis: affects 0.25–1.7% of newborns [1]

Epidemiological data refers to the US, unless otherwise specified.

The underlying cause is always a deficiency of vitamin K, which can be due to various factors:

References:[2]

Coagulation studies:

In the US, all newborns receive intramuscular vitamin K (0.5–1 mg) at birth.

  1. American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Fetus and Newborn.. Controversies concerning vitamin K and the newborn. American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Fetus and Newborn.. Pediatrics. 2003; 112 (1 Pt 1): p.191-2.
  2. American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Fetus and Newborn. Controversies concerning vitamin K and the newborn. Pediatrics. 2003; 112 (1).

3 free articles remaining

You have 3 free member-only articles left this month. Sign up and get unlimited access.
 Evidence-based content, created and peer-reviewed by physicians. Read the disclaimer