Necrotizing enterocolitis

:: Definition :: Images :: Causes :: Symptoms :: Treatment :: Further Reading

Search results last updated: 5/8/2009

necrotizing enterocolitis - Definition: (Source: MedLinePlus)

Necrotizing enterocolitis is the death of intestinal tissue. It primarily affects premature infants or sick newborns. ...
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necrotizing enterocolitis - Images (Source: MedLinePlus)

Infant intestines

Causes of necrotizing enterocolitis (Source: MedLinePlus)

Necrotizing enterocolitis occurs when the lining of the intestinal wall dies and the tissue falls off. The cause for this disorder is unknown. However, it is thought that a decrease in blood flow to the bowel keeps the bowel from producing mucus that protects the gastrointestinal tract. Bacteria in the intestine may also be a cause. Those with a higher risk for this condition include: Premature infants; Infants who are fed concentrated formulas; Infants in a nursery where an outbreak has occurred; Infants who have received blood exchange transfusions. ... [ read more.. ]

Symptoms of necrotizing enterocolitis (Source: MedLinePlus)

Abdominal distention ; Blood in the stool ; Diarrhea; Feeding intolerance; Lethargy ; Temperature instability; Vomiting. ... [ read more.. ]

necrotizing enterocolitis - Conventional Treatments (Source: MedLinePlus)

In an infant suspected of having necrotizing enterocolitis, feedings are stopped and gas is relieved from the bowel 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. Surgery will be needed if there is a hole in the intestines or peritonitis (inflammation of the abdominal wall). 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. ... [ read more.. ]

Further Reading on necrotizing enterocolitis

Necrotizing Enterocolitis - Topic Overview ( WebMD ) Necrotizing enterocolitis is infection and inflammation of the intestines...How is it treated? Will my child need surgery to treat it? Ongoing concerns: How can I manage necrotizing enterocolitis at... Necrotizing Enterocolitis - Treatment Overview ( WebMD ) No matter what kind of treatment your newborn needs for necrotizing enterocolitis , it can be stressful to watch a fragile newborn undergo medical treatment.

	necrotizing enterocolitis: Health Search Results from the Invisible Web

necrotizing enterocolitis: Health Search Results from the Invisible Web