NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS IN A TERM NEWBORN: CLINICAL CASE REPORT OF A COMPLEX CASE IN A REFERRAL HOSPITAL IN NORTHERN PERU
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61651/rped.2026v78n2p37-44Keywords:
Necrotizing enterocolitis, term infant , neonatal intensive care units , intestinal perforationAbstract
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is an inflammatory and ischemic intestinal disease that primarily affects preterm infants; however, it can also occur in term neonates, although less frequently and with distinct clinical characteristics. We report the case of a term female neonate without significant perinatal history who developed NEC during the first days of life, presenting with abdominal distension, bilious vomiting, and fever. The diagnosis was established based on clinical and radiological findings, including pneumoperitoneum, and was confirmed by histopathological examination following surgery. Management consisted of combined medical and surgical treatment, including broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy, percutaneous peritoneal drainage, intestinal resection with ileostomy, parenteral nutrition, and multidisciplinary care in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). The patient showed a favorable clinical course, with progressive recovery, hospital discharge after 20 days of NICU hospitalization, and delayed restoration of intestinal continuity. This case highlights the importance of early recognition of NEC in term neonates,individualized management, and a multidisciplinary approach to improve the outcomes of this uncommon but potentially life- threatening condition.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Andrés Fernando Silva Horna, Anshela del Pilar Yapapasca Pasapera, Franlis Adriana Bárcenas Mundaray
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