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Published in:

01-04-2009 | Review Article

Current concepts regarding the pathogenesis of necrotizing enterocolitis

Authors: Mikael Petrosyan, Yigit S. Guner, Monica Williams, Anatoly Grishin, Henri R. Ford

Published in: Pediatric Surgery International | Issue 4/2009

Abstract

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a devastating disease that predominantly affects premature neonates. The mortality associated with NEC has not changed appreciably over the past several decades. The underlying etiology of NEC remains elusive, although bacterial colonization of the gut, formula feeding, and perinatal stress have been implicated as putative risk factors. The disease is characterized by massive epithelial destruction, which results in gut barrier failure. The exact molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in this complex disease are poorly understood. Recent studies have provided significant insight into our understanding of the pathogenesis of NEC. Endogenous mediators such as prostanoids, cyclooxygenases, and nitric oxide may play a role in the development of gut barrier failure. Understanding the structural architecture of the gut barrier and the cellular mechanisms that are responsible for gut epithelial damage could lead to the development of novel diagnostic, prophylactic and therapeutic strategies in NEC.

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Title: Current concepts regarding the pathogenesis of necrotizing enterocolitis
Authors: Mikael Petrosyan
Yigit S. Guner
Monica Williams
Anatoly Grishin
Henri R. Ford
Publication date: 01-04-2009
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: Pediatric Surgery International / Issue 4/2009
Print ISSN: 0179-0358
Electronic ISSN: 1437-9813
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00383-009-2344-8

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Current concepts regarding the pathogenesis of necrotizing enterocolitis

Abstract

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

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