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Characteristics of neonates with isolated rectal bleeding
A Maayan-Metzger1, N Ghanem, R Mazkereth
1Department of Neonatology, Sheba Medical Center, and Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel. Maayan@oost.tau.ac.il
Archives of Disease in Childhood. Fetal and Neonatal Edition
|January 9, 2004
Summary
Non-breast milk feeding is linked to isolated rectal bleeding (IRB) in neonates. Encouraging breastfeeding, even partially, is recommended for these low-risk infants, who generally have excellent outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
Background:
- Isolated rectal bleeding (IRB) in neonates is a common clinical presentation.
- Distinguishing between low-risk and high-risk neonates with IRB is crucial for appropriate management.
- Understanding the etiological factors and outcomes associated with IRB is essential for evidence-based practice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize full-term and preterm neonates presenting with isolated rectal bleeding (IRB).
- To evaluate the clinical outcomes of low-risk neonates diagnosed with IRB.
- To identify potential risk factors associated with IRB in the neonatal population.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective case-control study was conducted.
- 147 neonates with IRB (83 full-term/near-term, 64 preterm) were compared with 147 controls.
- Data on feeding regimens and clinical characteristics were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Formula feeding, excluding breast milk, was the sole identified predictor of IRB.
- Lower rates of breastfeeding were observed in neonates with IRB compared to controls, in both full-term/near-term (52.6% vs. 83.1%) and preterm (45.9% vs. 74.2%) groups.
- No significant systemic infections were detected, and patients showed no deterioration post-diagnosis.
Conclusions:
- Neonates with IRB, particularly when considered low-risk, exhibit excellent outcomes.
- The necessity of antibiotics and feeding cessation for IRB requires further consideration.
- Promoting breastfeeding, even partially, is advised to potentially mitigate the occurrence of IRB.