Pneumatosis coli, a benign form of necrotising enterocolitis

Indian Pediatr. 2003 Apr;40(4):349-51.

Abstract

Necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) is the most common acquired gastrointestinal emergency in neonates. Presence of pneumatosis intestinalis is taken as evidence of definite NEC. A distinctive but rare form of NEC called "pneumatosis coli" has been described, presenting with gross blood in stools and minimal or absent local and systemic signs. Radio-graph characteristically reveal isolated colonic pneumatosis without small bowel involvement. Pneumatosis coli has a more benign course compared with definite NEC. Total parenteral nutrition, antibiotics, an appropriate duration off feeds and close observation remain the corner stones of therapy assuring a benign course.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Colonic Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Enterocolitis, Necrotizing / diagnosis*
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Infant, Premature, Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Male
  • Pneumatosis Cystoides Intestinalis / diagnosis*
  • Prognosis