Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is one of the most severe gastrointestinal emergencies that affect newborn infants, especially those born prematurely. This devastating condition occurs when bacteria invade the intestinal wall, leading to inflammation and potential tissue death. Without treatment, NEC can lead to severe and life-threatening complications like sepsis and intestinal perforation.
For the families of affected infants, the diagnosis often comes as a shocking development during what should be a joyous time. Many parents find themselves searching for answers about how such a serious condition could develop in their newborn. The answer is complex, but some feeding practices—specifically, the use of certain formulas—may lead to NEC. A NEC baby formula injury attorney may be able to assist you with your case.
Risk Factors and Common Causes of NEC in Infants
The exact cause of necrotizing enterocolitis remains complex and not fully understood by medical professionals. However, several key risk factors and potential causes have emerged. The majority of NEC cases occur in premature infants, especially those born before 37 weeks or weighing less than 5.5 pounds at birth.
The reason that premature infants are at a higher risk of NEC is due to their underdeveloped digestive systems. Their immature intestines struggle to protect themselves against harmful bacteria. When harmful bacteria are introduced into their bodies, they cannot effectively fight off infections, leading to inflammation and potential tissue damage in the intestinal walls.
These vulnerable infants face multiple challenges related to their premature birth that may increase the risk of NEC. These combined factors may create an environment where NEC can develop and spread rapidly:
- Their digestive systems often have poor blood circulation, which means less oxygen reaches the intestinal tissue.
- The natural protective barriers in their intestines, which typically develop around week 26 of pregnancy, remain incomplete.
- Their bodies can struggle to process and digest food properly, which can lead to a toxic buildup of substances in their intestines.
The Role of Baby Formula in NEC Development
Scientific evidence has revealed a concerning link between cow’s milk-based formulas and increased NEC risk in premature infants. Major manufacturers like Abbott and Mead Johnson produce bovine-based formulas (Similac and Enfamil, respectively) that have higher NEC occurrence rates compared to human breast milk alternatives.
Human breast milk contains natural antibodies and growth factors that help protect against NEC development. Conversely, cow’s milk-based formulas lack these protective elements and may trigger inflammation in premature digestive systems.
Despite mounting evidence of these risks, formula manufacturers failed to provide adequate warnings about the potential dangers that their products posed to premature infants. This oversight has left many families unaware of the increased risks associated with these widely used formulas. Even hospitals have routinely administered these formulas to premature infants under the assumption they were safe, unknowingly putting vulnerable babies at risk.
Recognizing the Early Warning Signs of NEC
NEC typically develops within two to six weeks after birth. Symptoms may appear gradually over several days or emerge suddenly in babies who previously seemed stable. The sooner that NEC is detected, the sooner that treatment can begin and the better chance an infant has for a successful recovery.
Key warning signs of NEC include:
- Abdominal swelling and pain
- Bloody stools
- Green or yellow vomit
- Lethargy
- Feeding difficulties
- Poor weight gain
- Changes in heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing
If your baby develops any of these symptoms or any other concerning characteristics, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Your doctor may conduct blood tests to look for signs of infection as well as fecal tests to look for blood in stools. Importantly, they will likely conduct abdominal X-rays to look for characteristic signs of NEC, such as air bubbles around the intestine.
Treatment for NEC in Premature Infants
The treatment plan for NEC will vary based on the stage of the disease and your infant’s overall health. Initially, your doctor will focus on stopping the progression of the disease. For example, they may administer antibiotics to fight potential infections. A tube may also be placed in the abdomen to remove excess gas and fluid that may have built up due to the condition.
In some cases, surgery may be required to remove damaged portions of the intestine and repair any perforations. During surgery, the doctor may need to create a temporary opening in the abdomen to allow waste to exit the body. Once your baby has recovered, additional surgery can reconnect the intestines.
Potential Complications Associated with NEC
Most infants who develop NEC survive the condition. However, they may face long-term health challenges that can affect their lives for years to come, if not permanently. These complications include:
- Abdominal Infections: Holes can develop in the intestinal wall, allowing bacteria to leak into the abdominal cavity. This causes a serious infection called peritonitis, which can lead to sepsis—a life-threatening condition where the infection spreads throughout the bloodstream.
- Intestinal Strictures: Scar tissue forms in the intestines during healing, creating narrow, constricted areas. These strictures make it difficult for food to pass through the digestive system.
- Short Bowel Syndrome: When surgeons remove damaged sections of the intestine, the remaining bowel may be too short to properly absorb nutrients. Children with this condition often need feeding tubes and may face lifelong digestive challenges.
- Developmental Problems: The physical stress of NEC and related surgeries can impact a child’s overall development. Many survivors experience delayed growth, cognitive challenges, and motor skill difficulties.
Pursuing Legal Action After Your Child Develops NEC
Families affected by NEC may have grounds for legal action, particularly when cow’s milk-based formula contributed to their child’s condition. Lawsuits are being filed against Abbott and Mead Johnson for failing to warn consumers and healthcare professionals about the heightened risk of NEC.
These lawsuits allow families of affected infants to recover compensation for:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Ongoing care requirements
- Developmental support services
- Lost wages for caregivers
- Physical and emotional pain and suffering
If your child developed NEC after drinking Similac or Enfamil, your family deserves fierce advocacy and comprehensive support. Shapiro Legal Group, PLLC possesses deep experience in NEC formula lawsuits and has held large corporations accountable for their dangerous products for years. We can help you build a strong case for compensation and support your family every step of the way.
Every moment matters when pursuing justice for your child. Take the first step and schedule your free consultation at (800) 220-0984 to schedule a free consultation. Our NEC baby formula lawsuit attorney will evaluate your case, explain your rights, and help determine the best path forward for your family.