Vitamin K-induced cardiovascular collapse

A patient underwent a partial right hepatic lobectomy for adenocarcinoma of the colon metastatic to the liver. He was admitted to the surgical intensive care unit in stable condition. Six hours after surgery, the patient experienced sudden and severe hypotension, bradycardia, and asystole. Differential diagnoses included acute myocardial infarction, hemorrhage from the surgical site, and pulmonary embolism. However, these complication were ruled out. We believe that an allergic reaction to vitamin K caused the acute decompensation in this patient. Indications for administering vitamin K and its potential side effects are discussed.