Abstract:
Bruising and bleeding are commonly seen in children. Reasonable differential diagnosis between
bleeding disorders and non accidental injury is possible by careful history and examination. The
lab tests can be screening tests and special tests. If the screening tests are normal, a thrombin
time and platelet aggregation studies should be considered. In individuals with abnormal
screening tests, further specific factor work-up should be undertaken for precise diagnosis. In a
patient with an abnormal bleeding history and a positive family history, normal screening tests
may need further laboratory evaluation. It is challenging for general pediatrician to interpret
results of routine screening tests and make decisions to seek for specialist advice. An effort is
made to approach a bleeding child by a practicing pediatrician with limited facilities for
investigations and when to seek specialist advice.
