Description
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is the most common gastrointestinal emergency in premature newborns. It is a condition where there is varying damage to the intestinal tract leading to tissue death. It is potentially life threatening, but most infants survive. The exact cause is unknown.
Symptoms
Symptoms may include abdominal distension, blood in stool, vomiting, diarrhea, feeding intolerance and increased gas after feedings.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Abdominal x-ray will likely be ordered as well as lab studies. A complete blood count (CBC), blood cultures and a complete metabolic panel (CMP) will be ordered to check for infection and electrolyte imbalance.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), X-ray
Other Specific Tests: Arterial blood gas (ABG), Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT)
Specialists:
Pediatric Surgery, Pediatric Gastroenterology
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Abdominal x-ray will likely be ordered as well as lab studies. A complete blood count (CBC), blood cultures and a complete metabolic panel (CMP) will be ordered to check for infection and electrolyte imbalance.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), X-ray
Other Specific Tests: Arterial blood gas (ABG), Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT)
Specialists:
Pediatric Surgery, Pediatric Gastroenterology
Treatment
Early, aggressive treatment helps improve the outcome. Treatment for the infants includes gastrointestinal rest to help heal the intestine. This requires nothing by mouth (NPO). Intravenous fluids and intravenous nutrition are provided. Antibiotics may be started. Surgery may be necessary if the infant is not improving with medical therapy, especially if there is a high risk of intestinal rupture.