Necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) is **a life-threatening illness almost exclusively affecting neonates.**Inflammation of the intestine leading to bacterial invasion causing cellular damage and death which causes necrosis of the colon and intestine. What causes the initial inflammation is unknown.
- 10-15% incidence in low weight babies (<1500g)
- Premature babies (less than 32 weeks) - 80% of cases
- Most common site is ileocolic region
First medical management then if condition worsens surgical laparotomy to remove affected bowel