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Necrotizing Enterocolitis
What Is NEC?
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a serious gastrointestinal disease that primarily affects premature infants, causing inflammation and damage to the intestine. The term "necrotizing" refers to the death of tissue, "entero" to the intestine, and "colitis" to inflammation of the colon. NEC is characterized by the inflammation and eventual death of intestinal tissue, potentially leading to complications like intestinal perforation, infection, and even death.
NEC primarily affects premature infants, with a higher risk in those born very early (before 28 weeks of gestation) .
Statistics
- Estimated at 1-3 per 1000 live births in the general population.
- Incidence is significantly higher in premature, low birth weight infants (VLBW), with estimates ranging from 2-7.5% in infants with a gestational age less than 32 weeks.
- Very Low Birth Weight infants (<1500g) have a 7% incidence of NEC.
- NEC is rare in full-term infants, but it can occur in those with other serious illnesses or risk factors.
Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
- Symptoms: Symptoms can include abdominal swelling, bloody stools, vomiting (especially green bile), feeding intolerance, and lethargy.
- Diagnosis: Diagnosis often involves abdominal X-rays, which can reveal gas or air bubbles in the intestinal wall or abdominal cavity.
- Treatment: Treatment may include stopping feedings, administering intravenous fluids and antibiotics, and in severe cases, surgery to remove damaged tissue or create a stoma.