title: Necrotizing enterocolitis.
abstract: In necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) the small (most often distal) and/or large bowel becomes injured, develops intramural air, and may progress to frank necrosis with perforation. Even with early, aggressive treatment, the progression of necrosis, which is highly characteristic of NEC, can lead to sepsis and death. This article reviews the current scientific knowledge related to the etiology and pathogenesis of NEC and discusses some possible preventive measures.
authors.affiliation: Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, New York Hospital Queens, Affiliate Weill Medical College of Cornell University, 56-45, Main Street, Flushing, NY 11355, USA. pns9001@nyp.org
authors.forename: Pinchi S
authors.initials: PS
authors.lastname: Srinivasan
authors.forename: Michael D
authors.initials: MD
authors.lastname: Brandler
authors.forename: Antoni
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: D'Souza
mesh_terms: D002423:Cause of Death; D020345:Enterocolitis, Necrotizing / Q000209:etiology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D006801:Humans; D007049:Iatrogenic Disease / Q000517:prevention & control; D007230:Infant, Low Birth Weight; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007234:Infant, Premature; D007235:Infant, Premature, Diseases / Q000209:etiology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D012307:Risk Factors