Effects of Vitamin K Administration in Correcting Coagulopathy in Patients with Liver Cirrhosis: Retrospective Clinical Study

TL;DR

This study explores whether vitamin K can improve blood clotting in liver cirrhosis patients, finding it helps some but not all.

Contribution

The study provides evidence that vitamin K may selectively improve coagulopathy in cirrhosis patients with reversible deficiency.

Findings

Vitamin K administration led to early and progressive improvement in INR values in a subset of cirrhotic patients.

INR values were strongly correlated over time, but only weakly associated with bilirubin levels.

Improvements suggest a targeted effect rather than universal efficacy of vitamin K in cirrhosis.

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Coagulopathy is a common complication of liver cirrhosis, partly due to impaired synthesis of vitamin K-dependent coagulation factors. Despite its frequent use, the efficacy of vitamin K in this setting remains uncertain. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of vitamin K administration on coagulation parameters in patients with cirrhosis. Methods: We performed a retrospective study of 122 cirrhotic patients hospitalized between 2020 and 2024, who received vitamin K for coagulopathy correction. Coagulation and liver function parameters were monitored over time. Results: An early and progressive improvement in INR values was observed, in a subset of patients, following vitamin K administration. INR values across time points were strongly correlated, while only weak associations were observed with bilirubin levels. These findings support a selective therapeutic effect, rather than universal efficacy. Discussion: Despite current guidelines discouraging routine vitamin K use in cirrhosis, our findings suggest that selected patients—particularly those with reversible deficiency—may benefit from supplementation. The observed decrease in INR values supports a targeted, context-based approach rather than empirical management. Conclusions: However, due to the retrospective design and absence of a control group, the observed improvements cannot be conclusively attributed to vitamin K administration. Vitamin K may improve coagulation in cirrhotic patients with reversible deficiency, but its efficacy is not universal. Its use should be individualized and guided by clinical and biochemical context, as part of a broader treatment strategy.

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