Pneumatosis coli, a benign form of necrotising enterocolitis.

ABSTRACT

Necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) is the most common acquired gastrointestinal emergency in neonates. Presence of pneumatosis intestinalis is taken as evidence of definite NEC. A distinctive but rare form of NEC called "pneumatosis coli" has been described, presenting with gross blood in stools and minimal or absent local and systemic signs. Radio-graph characteristically reveal isolated colonic pneumatosis without small bowel involvement. Pneumatosis coli has a more benign course compared with definite NEC. Total parenteral nutrition, antibiotics, an appropriate duration off feeds and close observation remain the corner stones of therapy assuring a benign course.