Fulminant Necrotising Enterocolitis Immediately Following Change to Low Birth Weight Formula Feeds

Abstract

Introduction: The aim of this study was to investigate how low birth weight formula (LBWF) feeds may be implicated in the pathogenesis of a particularly fulminant form of necrotising enterocolitis (NEC). Materials and Methods: A retrospective case note review was undertaken of cases of fulminant NEC between 1997 and 2003 with particular regard to the feeding history. Results: Nine preterm infants were stable and already tolerating full enteral feeds for a median of seven days prior to developing fulminant NEC within a median of 24 hours following the introduction of LBWF. Conclusions: Although fortification of feeds undoubtedly benefits many premature neonates, there may be a tendency for LBWF feeds to preempt the development of fulminant NEC. This possible temporal association between LBWF and fulminant NEC requires further investigation.

Key words

necrotising enterocolitis - low birth weight formula - feeds

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