What is necrotizing enterocolitis in newborns?

Necrotizing enterocolitis (say "NEK-ruh-ty-zing en-tuh-roh-kuh-LY-tus"), or NEC, is serious damage to tissue in the intestine (bowel). It is usually caused by a lack of blood flow to a part of the bowel. Bacteria can grow there and cause an infection. This may damage the bowel more. As NEC gets worse, the baby will not be able to feed.

NEC can happen in infants and babies. It happens more often in premature newborns.

If the damage is not severe and treatment works well, the baby may be able to feed within 3 to 10 days.

Your baby may need special care, such as being in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). This may be scary for you. But the hospital staff understands this. They will explain what happens and will answer your questions.

Symptoms depend on how severe the problem is. They may include:

• A swollen, tender, red, or shiny belly.
• Constipation.
• Dark, black, or bloody stools.
• Low or unstable body temperature.
• Chills and fever.
• Fast heartbeat and breathing.
• Not wanting to eat.
• Vomiting.
• Being less active or having little energy.

The doctor will examine your baby. The doctor may do tests, such as:

• An X-ray of your newborn's belly.
• A test to check for blood in your baby's stool (fecal occult blood test).
• Tests to check for bacteria in the stool, blood, urine, or spinal fluid.

• The doctor will watch your baby closely. Your baby will get fluids, medicines (including antibiotics), and nutrition through a blood vessel. This helps your baby fight the infection and lets the tissue heal.
• If the damage to the bowel is severe, your baby may need surgery. The doctor may remove the damaged part of the bowel. The bowel may then be repaired with surgery. Your baby may also need an ostomy. This makes the stool leave the body through an opening in the belly and collects it in a bag. Your baby will be asleep during surgery.

This condition is treated in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Your child's care team will work with you to help your baby. You can also ask the NICU staff about counseling and support.