Necrotizing enterocolitis

ICD-10 Code K55.3

Necrotizing enterocolitis

Definition

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a devastating disease that affects mostly the intestine of premature infants. The wall of the intestine is invaded by bacteria, which cause local infection and inflammation that can ultimately destroy the wall of the bowel (intestine). Such bowel wall destruction can lead to perforation of the intestine and spillage of stool into the infant's abdomen, which can result in an overwhelming infection and death.

Also known as NEC, necrotizing enterocolitis — per MONDO

Also identified as

Affected Organs

Organ Involvement Source
Alimentary part of gastrointestinal system Disease Has Associated Anatomic Site NCIT · CC BY 4.0
Alimentary part of gastrointestinal system Disease Has Primary Anatomic Site NCIT · CC BY 4.0
Intestine Disease Has Associated Anatomic Site NCIT · CC BY 4.0
Intestine Disease Has Primary Anatomic Site NCIT · CC BY 4.0