Abstract
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.