Necrotizing enterocolitis: the search for a unifying pathogenic theory leading to prevention

J Neu, J Neu

Abstract

During the past two decades, necrotizing enterocolitis has emerged as a major cause of mortality and morbidity in premature infants. The specific cause of the disease remains enigmatic, but several putative risk factors provide clues to a pathophysiology that seems to be multifactorial. With the use of newly developed scientific tools, an understanding of the basic pathophysiologic cascade that causes necrotizing enterocolitis is emerging, providing hope for improved treatment and prevention.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Several dilated air-filled loops of bowel in the right lower quadrant indicate a focal ileus. The arrow points to submucosal air in the splenic flexure.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Film of the chest and abdomen shows massive air-distended bowel with diffuse intramural air.
Figure 3
Figure 3
Air in the portal system (arrow).
Figure 4
Figure 4
Left lateral decubitus film of the abdomen shows free intraperitoneal air from a bowel perforation. Free air is shown on both sides of the falciform ligament (arrow).

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