Vitamin K Deficiency Bleeding (Hemorrhagic Disease of the Newborn)

What is vitamin K deficiency bleeding?

Vitamin K deficiency bleeding (VKDB) is a bleeding problem that occurs in some newborns during the first few days of life. VKDB was previously called hemorrhagic disease of the newborn.

What causes vitamin K deficiency bleeding?

Babies are normally born with low levels of vitamin K, an essential factor in blood clotting. A deficiency in vitamin K is the main cause of VKDB.

Who is affected by vitamin K deficiency bleeding?

Vitamin K deficiency may result in bleeding in a very small percentage of babies. Babies at risk for developing vitamin K deficiency bleeding (VKDB) include the following:

• Babies who do not receive preventive vitamin K in an injection at birth

• Exclusively breastfed babies (breast milk contains less vitamin K than cow's milk formula)

• Babies whose mothers take anticonvulsants (for seizures) and anticoagulants (for clotting disorders) 

Why is vitamin K deficiency bleeding a concern?

Without the clotting factor, bleeding occurs, and severe bleeding or hemorrhage can result.

What are the symptoms of vitamin K deficiency bleeding?

The following are the most common symptoms of VKDB:

• Blood in the baby's bowel movements

• Blood in the baby's urine

• Oozing around the umbilical cord

The symptoms of VKDB may look like other conditions or medical problems. Always consult your baby's doctor for a diagnosis.

How is vitamin K deficiency bleeding diagnosed?

In addition to a complete medical history and physical exam, a diagnosis is based on signs of bleeding and lab tests for blood clotting times.

Treatment for vitamin K deficiency bleeding

Specific treatment for VKDB will be determined by your baby's doctor.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends giving every newborn baby an injection of vitamin K after delivery to prevent this potentially life-threatening disease.

Blood transfusions may also be needed if bleeding is severe.