Abstract
We present three cases of pre-term low-weight infants with suspected necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) [one eventually recognized as a connatal cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection], microbiologically monitored using a molecular assay detecting bacterial and fungal DNA in blood. The detection of DNA from enteric pathogens in blood was interpreted as a sign of ongoing perforation, and represented a useful complement in the management of the presented cases. Moreover, these cases suggest the opportunity for larger future studies to assess the possible role of a molecular approach in the close monitoring of infants with suspected NEC or with other conditions at-risk for intestinal perforation.
MeSH terms
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Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
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Cytomegalovirus Infections / diagnosis
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Cytomegalovirus Infections / drug therapy
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DNA, Bacterial / blood*
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DNA, Bacterial / isolation & purification
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Enterobacter / genetics
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Enterobacter / isolation & purification*
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Enterobacteriaceae Infections / drug therapy
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Enterobacteriaceae Infections / microbiology*
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Enterocolitis, Necrotizing / drug therapy
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Enterocolitis, Necrotizing / microbiology*
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Female
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Humans
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Infant, Low Birth Weight
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Infant, Newborn
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Infant, Premature
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Infant, Premature, Diseases / drug therapy
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Infant, Premature, Diseases / microbiology*
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Intestinal Perforation / diagnosis
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Intestinal Perforation / surgery
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Male
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Multiple Birth Offspring
Substances
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Anti-Bacterial Agents
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DNA, Bacterial