When Does Necrotizing Enterocolitis Show up?

What are the symptoms of necrotizing enterocolitis? NEC typically occurs two to six weeks after birth, depending on the type and cause. Symptoms may come on over a few days or appear suddenly in babies who otherwise seem to be doing well. NEC is a common problem among infants in NICUs.

How do you rule out necrotizing enterocolitis?

To confirm or rule out necrotizing enterocolitis, the doctor will order an abdominal X-ray. An X-ray may show multiple small bubbles in the wall of the intestine (pneumatosis intestinalis). Serial films help assess disease progression. In severe cases, the X-ray may reveal air or gas in the large veins of the liver.

How do you know if your baby has NEC?

How's It Diagnosed? Your child's doctor will take an X-ray of their abdomen and do some blood tests, usually in the neonatal intensive care unit. If it's NEC, the X-ray will show gas or air bubbles in the wall of their intestine. The doctor may also insert a needle into your baby's abdomen.