Recombinant Factor VIIa for Bleeding in Non-hemophiliac Pediatric Patients.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the use of recombinant factor VIIa (rFVIIa) for the treatment of bleeding in nonhemophiliac children.


METHODS
This was a retrospective chart review of all patients < 18 years of age who received rFVIIa over a 2 year period.


RESULTS
Twenty-four pediatric patients received a total of 240 doses of rFVIIa for treatment of bleeding. Recombinant factor VIIa was effective in achieving bleeding resolution in 54% of patients. The mean age of patients in the bleeding non-resolution versus resolution group was 50% younger (5.5 vs. 10.3 years, P = 0.104).


CONCLUSIONS
Bleeding resolution can be achieved with recombinant factor VIIa using similar doses to those recommended for children with hemophilia. Widespread use of rFVIIa for bleeding in children without hemophilia is not warranted given this efficacy data. Further safety studies are needed with rFVIIa in this population to clarify thrombotic risks.
Department of Pharmacy, Rockingham Memorial Hospital, Harrisonburg, Virginia.
Elizabeth M
EM
Oen
Kathleen A
KA
Doan
Chad A
CA
Knoderer
Holly M
HM
Knoderer