Definition of Necrotising Enterocolitis

Necrotising enterocolitis is an acquired condition seen primarily in premature infants that is characterised by intestinal wall inflammation leading to necrosis and potentially perforation. It most often presents with feed intolerance, systemic instability and abdominal distension. In the context of an unwell premature infant, pneumotosis intestalis on abdominal x-ray is pathopneumonic for NEC. The modified Bell staging system is the most widely used diagnostic criteria for NEC. Clinically, a baby presenting with signs and symptoms, consistent with Bell Stage I should, initially, at least, be treated as NEC. From a research perspective, for most studies, it is more appropriate to only include babies meeting the criteria for Bell Stage IIa or higher.