Maturation of the coagulation system during childhood

Recent advances in tertiary care pediatrics have significantly increased the survival of children with complex pathologic disorders which were previously frequently fatal. Paradoxically, these advances in treatment have led to an increased frequency of acquired haemorrhagic and thrombotic disorder in these children. As the hemostatic system in children is profoundly different from that in adults, knowledge about developmental hemostasis is essential for optimal prevention and treatment of hemostatic disorders in children. The current paper reviews the development of pro- and anticoagulant systems throughout childhood.