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Necrotizing enterocolitis

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Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Digestive system
Digestive system
Infant intestines
Infant intestines

Alternative names    Return to top

NEC

Definition    Return to top

Necrotizing enterocolitis is an acquired disease, primarily in premature infants or sick newborns, in which intestinal tissue dies.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors    Return to top

In necrotizing enterocolitis, the lining of the intestinal wall dies and the tissue sloughs off. The cause for this disorder is unknown, but it is thought that a decreased blood flow to the bowel keeps the bowel from producing the normal protective mucus. Bacteria in the intestine may also be a causative factor.

At risk are small, premature infants, infants who are fed concentrated formulas, infants in a nursery where an outbreak has occured (suggesting an infectious cause), and infants who have received blood exchange transfusions.

Symptoms    Return to top

Signs and tests    Return to top

Treatment    Return to top

In an infant suspected of having necrotizing enterocolitis, feedings are stopped and the bowel is decompressed of gas by inserting a small tube into the stomach. Intravenous fluid replaces formula or breast milk. Antibiotic therapy is started. The infant's condition is monitored with abdominal x-rays, blood tests, and blood gases.

If intestinal perforation (hole) or peritonitis (inflammation of the abdominal wall) develops, surgery is indicated. The dead bowel tissue is removed and a colostomy or ileostomy is performed. The bowel is then reconnected several weeks or months later when the infection and inflammation have healed.

Expectations (prognosis)    Return to top

Necrotizing enterocolitis is a serious disease with a death rate approaching 25%. The outcome is improved by aggressive, early treatment.

Complications    Return to top

Calling your health care provider    Return to top

This disorder usually develops in an infant that is already ill or premature, and most often develops while the infant is still in the hospital. If any symptoms of necrotizing enterocolitis develop, especially in an infant that has recently been hospitalized for illness or prematurity, go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911).

Update Date: 10/9/2003

Updated by: Christian Stone, M. D., Division of Gastroenterology, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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