Vitamin K Deficiency

Book
In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan.
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Excerpt

Vitamin K comprises a group of fat-soluble compounds. Several vitamin K-dependent proteins are involved in essential processes such as blood clotting, bone metabolism, and cardiovascular health. Vitamin K deficiency can contribute to significant bleeding, poor bone development, osteoporosis, and increased cardiovascular disease. According to the National Academy of Science Food and Nutrition Board, the recommended dietary intake for healthy adults is 120 μg/d for men and 90 μg/d for women.

Vitamin K deficiency bleeding (VKDB) in newborns is categorized into 3 groups based on the timing of presentation. Early VKDB manifests within 24 hours after birth, classic VKDB presents within the first week, and late VKDB occurs between 1 week and 6 months of life, with a peak incidence between 2 weeks and 8 weeks. Hereditary combined deficiency of vitamin K–dependent clotting factors (VKCFD) is a rare congenital bleeding disorder that can also manifest during the neonatal period.

Publication types

  • Study Guide