What is NEC?
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a serious gastrointestinal condition that affects premature infants. It involves inflammation and infection of the intestines, which can lead to life-threatening complications.

Stages of NEC:

• Stage 1 (Suspected NEC):
  • Symptoms: Lethargy, vomiting, bloody stools, mild abdominal bloating, slow heart rate, unstable temperature.
• Stage 2 (Confirmed NEC):
  • Symptoms: Includes Stage 1 symptoms plus lack of bowel sounds, abdominal pain or tenderness, low or no intestinal movement, gas-filled spaces in intestinal walls.
• Stage 3 (Advanced NEC):
  • Symptoms: Includes Stage 1 and 2 symptoms plus low blood pressure, low white blood cell count, blood clots, abdominal inflammation, fluid and gas buildup in the abdomen.

Other Staging Methods:

• Vermont Oxford Network (VON): Requires clinical and radiographic signs.
• CDC: Similar to VON but includes surgical criteria.
• UK Neonatal Collaborative (UKNC-NEC): Uses a point-based system.
• Two of Three Rule: Diagnosis with specific symptoms and signs.
• Stanford NEC Score: Considers clinical, laboratory, and radiographic factors.
• International Neonatal Consortium (INC): Requires clinical signs and specific evidence.

Symptoms of NEC: In newborns, symptoms may include:

• Inability to digest food
• Abdominal bloating or swelling
• Stomach discoloration
• Tenderness in the abdomen
• Blood in stool
• Vomiting
• Lethargy

Treatment Options:

• Stopping feeding
• Nasogastric intubation
• Intravenous antibiotics
• Total parenteral nutrition
• Surgery if needed

Complications:

• Sepsis
• Bowel perforation
• Liver failure
• Growth issues

Preventive Measures:

• Feeding with breast milk or preterm formula
• Avoiding certain drugs and treatments
• Consideration of corticosteroids for preterm birth risk

Filing an NEC Lawsuit:

If your premature baby consumed Similac or Enfamil and was diagnosed with NEC, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit. The criteria include:

• Premature birth
• Consumption of Similac or Enfamil
• NEC diagnosis

How to Proceed:

• Contact us with details of your case and hospital information if applicable.
• We can guide you through the process and help you understand your legal options.