Hemorrhagic disease of newborn

Hemorrhagic Disease of the Newborn (HDN), also known as Vitamin K Deficiency Bleeding (VKDB), is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition that can occur in newborns and young infants. It is characterized by spontaneous bleeding due to insufficient vitamin K levels.

Causes

The primary cause of HDN is a deficiency in vitamin K, an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in the blood clotting process. Newborns are particularly at risk because they have low levels of vitamin K at birth, and the vitamin does not cross the placenta well. Additionally, breast milk contains lower levels of vitamin K than formula milk.

Symptoms

The symptoms of HDN can vary, but they typically involve bleeding in various parts of the body. This can include bruising, bleeding from the nose or umbilical cord, blood in the urine or stool, or bleeding into the brain (intracranial hemorrhage).

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of HDN is typically based on the presence of the characteristic symptoms, along with blood tests showing a prolonged prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT).

Treatment

The primary treatment for HDN is the administration of vitamin K, which can be given orally or by injection. This typically leads to a rapid improvement in the baby's clotting status.

Prevention

Prevention of HDN is possible through the administration of vitamin K shortly after birth. This is now a routine practice in many countries.

See also

• Vitamin K
• Blood clotting
• Newborn health