Abstract
Vitamin K is necessary for synthesis of coagulation factors II (prothrombin), VII, IX and X in the liver. In the absence of vitamin K, the liver will synthesize inactive precursor proteins known as proteins induced by the absence of vitamin K (PIVKA's). Because vitamin K is fat-soluble, it can only be absorbed from the intestine in the presence of bile salts. The body's capacity to store vitamin K is very low and the half-life of the vitamin Kdependent coagulation factors is short [1]. Because of this, deficiency can occur quickly if the intake is not sufficient.
Highlights
Bleeding diathesis purely from vitamin K deficiency is rarely seen in adults
The two postulated mechanisms implicate either direct inhibition of biosynthesis of the vitamin K-dependent clotting factors by the N-methylthiotetrazole (NMTT) moiety found in certain antimicrobial agents or eradication of vitamin K-producing intestinal microflora in patients with reduced oral intake of vitamin K [4]
In clinical practice, an elevated prothrombin time (PT) without evidence of Disseminated Intravascular bleeding (DIC) is suspicious of Vitamin K deficiency and supplementation is usually given to correct it even if there is no evidence of bleeding
Summary
Bleeding diathesis purely from vitamin K deficiency is rarely seen in adults. mild vitamin K deficiency in the form of a slightly prolonged prothrombin time (PT) is commonly seen in hospitalized patients due to the poor oral intake, fat malabsorptive disorders, malignancy, broad spectrum antibiotic use especially cephalosporins and liver or renal disease. *Corresponding author: Priyanka Pathak, MD, MPH, Physician, Kimmel Cancer Center, Department of Medical Oncology, Thomas Jefferson University, 111 S. Bleeding diathesis purely from vitamin K deficiency is rarely seen in adults. Mild vitamin K deficiency in the form of a slightly prolonged prothrombin time (PT) is commonly seen in hospitalized patients due to the poor oral intake, fat malabsorptive disorders, malignancy, broad spectrum antibiotic use especially cephalosporins and liver or renal disease.
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