Necrotizing enterocolitis

Definitions & Key takeaways

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a medical condition primarily seen in premature infants, where portions of the bowel undergo necrosis. Symptoms of NEC may include abdominal swelling, vomiting, diarrhea, feeding intolerance, rectal bleeding, and a lack of bowel movements. NEC is diagnosed through a combination of physical examination, imaging tests, and laboratory tests. Treatment may involve antibiotics, nasogastric tube to decompress the gut, supportive management, and surgery to remove the damaged intestine.