Necrotizing Enterocolitis

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a serious disorder affecting a baby's gastrointestinal tract, which consists of the mouth, stomach, small intestine, large intestine and anus. In the vast majority of cases, NEC occurs in a small percentage of very premature infants. Although the exact cause of NEC is not known, it may be associated with an infection. NEC can cause serious damage to the intestines that may require surgical intervention. Even though NEC only occurs in a small percentage of premature infants, because of the increased risk, premature infants are monitored closely during feedings.

NEC almost always causes distension, or swelling, of the baby's belly. However, most infants in whom abdominal distension occurs do not have NEC. Damage caused by NEC to the bowel, or intestine, may cause a hole in the intestines, allowing the bacteria normally present in the intestines to leak out into the abdomen and cause infection. Even with treatment, this may cause serious complications. In more severe cases, it may be necessary to remove part of the intestine. If a large segment of intestine is removed, problems with food absorption will occur. In the most severe cases, NEC may be fatal.

Experts at UCSF Children's Hospital care for infants in the William H. Tooley Intensive Care Nursery.

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Children's Hospital.
Last updated May 8, 2007