Controversies concerning vitamin K and the newborn. American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Fetus and Newborn

Pediatrics. 2003 Jul;112(1 Pt 1):191-2.

Abstract

Prevention of early vitamin K deficiency bleeding (VKDB) of the newborn, with onset at birth to 2 weeks of age (formerly known as classic hemorrhagic disease of the newborn), by oral or parenteral administration of vitamin K is accepted practice. In contrast, late VKDB, with onset from 2 to 12 weeks of age, is most effectively prevented by parenteral administration of vitamin K. Earlier concern regarding a possible causal association between parenteral vitamin K and childhood cancer has not been substantiated. This revised statement presents updated recommendations for the use of vitamin K in the prevention of early and late VKDB.

Publication types

  • Guideline
  • Practice Guideline

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Oral
  • Health Policy
  • Hemorrhagic Disorders / etiology
  • Hemorrhagic Disorders / prevention & control*
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Injections, Intramuscular
  • Leukemia / chemically induced
  • Leukemia / epidemiology
  • Recurrence
  • Vitamin K / administration & dosage
  • Vitamin K / adverse effects
  • Vitamin K / therapeutic use*
  • Vitamin K Deficiency / complications
  • Vitamin K Deficiency / drug therapy*

Substances

  • Vitamin K