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Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC)

A serious disease of premature infants characterized by intestinal necrosis.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC)?

NEC is a disease characterized by intestinal ischemia and necrosis seen especially in premature infants <32 weeks. Its incidence is 5-10% in low birth weight infants. The etiology involves immature intestinal barrier, abnormal bacterial colonization and ischemic injury.

It is staged according to the Bell criteria: Stage I (suspected), Stage II (definite), Stage III (advanced, perforation). The risk of surgical intervention and mortality increases with stage.

Formula feeding increases the risk while breast milk is protective. Probiotics can be used for prophylactic purposes. Mortality is 20-30% and there is a risk of short bowel syndrome in the long term.

Symptoms

Abdominal distension and tenderness
Bilious vomiting or gastric retention
Hematochezia (bloody stool)
Apnea, bradycardia and lethargy
Hypothermia or fever
Pneumatosis intestinalis (X-ray)

Risk Factors

Prematurity (<32 weeks)
Low birth weight (<1500 g)
Formula feeding
Hypoxia and asphyxia
Umbilical catheter
Antibiotic use

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Detection during routine NICU follow-up
  • When abdominal distension and vomiting develop
  • When bloody stool is seen
  • When apnea and lethargy increase
  • In feeding intolerance

Treatment Methods

01
Discontinuation of oral feeding and NG decompression
02
IV fluids and total parenteral nutrition
03
Broad-spectrum IV antibiotics
04
Follow-up with serial abdominal X-rays
05
Surgery: in perforation or progressive disease
06
Probiotic prophylaxis and breast milk encouragement

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.