Vitamin K Deficiency Bleeding

Vitamin K deficiency bleeding is a clotting disorder that occurs when the body lacks this vitamin, which is needed for the blood to clot properly. It is seen mainly in newborns, since their stores are low at birth.

Common signs: bruises that appear easily, prolonged bleeding from minor cuts, blood in the stool or urine, or bleeding from the umbilical cord in babies.

When should you see a doctor? Any unexpected bleeding or bruising without a clear cause in a newborn requires attention.

Which specialist treats it? The neonatologist and the pediatrician monitor the newborn, and the hematologist—including the pediatric hematologist—evaluates clotting when needed; the pediatric nephrologist assists depending on the case. At the first signs of bleeding, an evaluation by these professionals is advisable.