Antibiotic Associated Hypoprothrombinemia

Authors

  • Nasir Khokhar Pekin Memorial Hospital, Pekin, lllinois

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5915/17-2_3-12755

Keywords:

Vitamin K, Antibiotics, Clotting, Hypoprothrombinemia

Abstract

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5915/17-2_3-12755

Vitamin K is an important substance in synthesis of several clotting factors, most important of which is prothrombin. Many antibiotics have effects on intestinal micro organisms which are necessary for synthesis of Vitamin K and thus formation of essential clotting factors is interfered with. This antibiotic associated hypoprothrombinemia can lead to hemorrhage. Clinical set up for such a happening is generally easily recognized. Management includes parenteral administration of Vitamin K, plasma transfusion, or "Prothrombin Complex" in serious hemorrhagic conditions. Antibiotic associated hypoprothrombinemia can be prevented by prophylactic use of Vitamin K in situations likely to result in bleeding, e.g. post-operative conditions.

Author Biography

Nasir Khokhar, Pekin Memorial Hospital, Pekin, lllinois

Department of Internal Medicine, Pekin Memorial Hospital, Pekin, lllinois

M.D.

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Published

1985-07-01

Issue

Section

Case Reports