The patient's abdominal radiograph improves during the next few days. The platelet count is stable.
Which is the most likely complication of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC)?
A. intestinal stricture
B. chronic constipation
C. neurodevelopmental problems
D. increased risk of food allergies
E. increased risk of irritable bowel syndrome
The correct answer is A. Strictures happen in about 10% of patients following NEC. Sepsis at this point is related to physician interventions such as indwelling vascular catheters placed for prolonged hyperalimentation.
Source:
Question & Explanation and Photo: Daum RS, Canel JJ. McGraw-Hill Specialty Board Review: Pediatrics, 2e; 2013.
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