Necrotising enterocolitis history and symptoms

The condition is typically seen in premature infants, and the timing of its onset is generally inversely proportional to the gestational age of the baby at birth. i.e. the earlier a baby is born, the later signs of NEC are typically seen. Initial symptoms include feeding intolerance, increased gastric residuals, abdominal distension and bloody stools. Symptoms may progress rapidly to abdominal discoloration with intestinal perforation and peritonitis and systemic hypotension requiring intensive medical support.

Symptoms may come on slowly or suddenly, and may include:

• Abdominal distention
• Blood in the stool
• Diarrhea
• Feeding intolerance
• Lethargy
• Temperature instability
• Vomiting

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