The majority of preterm children, especially those born before 32 weeks of gestation or with a very low birth weight, are at risk for the dangerous and sometimes fatal medical illness known as necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). The intestine is the main organ affected by this terrible illness, which causes inflammation and, in severe cases, tissue death or necrosis. Prematurity, immature immune systems, enteral nutrition, and bacterial colonization are some of the complex interplaying risk factors for NEC. The abrupt onset of symptoms, which frequently begin with feeding difficulty, abdominal distension, and a discernible shift in the infant's temperament, is the defining feature of NEC. These initial symptoms could get worse as the illness worsens, and they might be followed by nausea, vomiting, bloody feces, lethargy, and a palpable abdominal mass. The infant's life is seriously in danger in extreme cases of the illness because it can cause sepsis, intestinal perforation, and the release of deadly bacteria into the circulation. Typically, clinical evaluation, radiographic imaging, and laboratory tests are used to diagnose NEC. To determine the degree of intestinal injury, X-rays and ultrasounds are frequently employed. Early intervention is essential, and common treatment methods include stopping enteral feeding, giving intravenous fluids, broad-spectrum antibiotics, and other supportive care in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). Surgery to remove the damaged sections of the intestine may be required in extreme cases where tissue necrosis or perforation occurs. Neonatal medicine continues to face a tremendous problem in preventing NEC. Strict infection control procedures, cautious feeding guidelines, and methods to assist the development of premature infants' undeveloped gastrointestinal systems are all used to lessen the incidence of this condition. When compared to formula feeding, human breast milk, which contains vital antibodies and nutrients, has been demonstrated to provide some protection against NEC. The disease necrotizing enterocolitis, which primarily affects premature infants, is terrible and difficult. Preventive interventions, timely management, and early detection are crucial for reducing the serious effects of NEC. In order to improve outcomes and lessen the burden of this complex illness on our most vulnerable population, advancements in newborn care and continued research are essential.
