This potentially dangerous intestinal problem most commonly affects premature babies. The bowel may become damaged when its blood supply is decreased and bacteria that are normally present in the bowel invade the damaged area, causing more damage. Babies with NEC develop feeding problems, abdominal swelling and other complications. If tests show a baby has NEC, he will be fed intravenously while his bowel heals. Sometimes damaged sections of intestine must be surgically removed.
An infection of the intestine, sometimes occurring in premature infants who have begun to feed. NEC is usually treated successfully by withholding feedings and administering antibiotics. If severe, surgery may be required.
an acute inflammatory disease occurring in the intestines of premature infants; necrosis of intestinal tissue may follow
(NEC): A condition of the intestinal tract where (normally) harmless bacteria attacks the intestinal wall.
a deterioration of the intestinal tract. It is caused by inflammation of the intestinal tract or decreased blood supply to the bowel. This complication of prematurity generally improves, but it can lead to perforation of the bowel, sepsis, or death.
A serious illness that affects the bowel wall.
The condition in which part of the intestines is destroyed or becomes severely depleted of oxygen. This is usually a condition in underweight newborn babies.
a serious intestinal illness in babies that can cause tissue damage to the intestines.
a situation that may affect underweight or premature infants, and occurs when part of the intestine is damaged or destroyed by a bacterial infection.
A condition in which part of the tissue in the intestines is destroyed.
inflammation of the intestine that may lead to perforation and sepsis (infection). Most likely occurs in babies born before thirty-four weeks gestation.
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a medical condition primarily seen in premature infants, where portions of the bowel undergo necrosis (tissue death).
