Vitamin K

Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays an essential role in blood coagulation and bone metabolism. This test measures the level of vitamin K in your blood to help identify deficiency, which can occur due to poor dietary intake, malabsorption conditions (such as coeliac disease or cystic fibrosis), liver disease, or prolonged use of certain medications like antibiotics or anticoagulants. It is also useful for investigating unexplained bleeding or bruising, and for monitoring individuals at risk of deficiency, including those with chronic gastrointestinal disorders or those on long-term parenteral nutrition.

The test is performed on a simple blood sample, typically using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) or mass spectrometry to accurately quantify vitamin K levels.

Biomarkers Included

Vitamins
- Vitamin K

Why it matters
Vitamin K is crucial for the synthesis of clotting factors (II, VII, IX, X) and proteins involved in bone mineralisation. Deficiency can lead to easy bruising, prolonged bleeding, and increased risk of osteoporosis. Early detection allows for appropriate dietary or supplemental intervention, helping to prevent bleeding complications and support long-term bone health.