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Fecal phagocyte-specific S100A12 for diagnosing necrotizing enterocolitis
Jan Däbritz1, Andreas Jenke, Stefan Wirth
1Institute of Immunology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany. Jan.Daebritz@uni-muenster.de
The Journal of Pediatrics
|July 17, 2012
Summary
Fecal S100A12 levels may help predict necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) risk and severity in very low birth weight infants. However, variability in S100A12 excretion may limit its predictive use.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Gastroenterology
- Biomarker Research
Background:
- Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a serious condition affecting preterm infants.
- Early identification of infants at risk for NEC is crucial for timely intervention.
- Fecal S100A12 is a potential marker of intestinal inflammation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate longitudinal fecal S100A12 measurements for identifying very low birth weight infants at risk of NEC.
- To assess the predictive value of fecal S100A12 for NEC severity.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 145 preterm infants (<1500 g birth weight).
- Collection of meconium and stool samples over 4 weeks.
- Measurement of fecal S100A12 and calprotectin using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.
Main Results:
- 12.4% of infants developed NEC; NEC patients had lower gestational age and birth weight.
- Fecal S100A12 levels were elevated in severe NEC cases and 4-10 days prior to onset.
- S100A12 showed better predictive performance (sensitivity 0.76, specificity 0.56) than calprotectin.
Conclusions:
- Fecal S100A12 may aid in predicting NEC severity and early risk assessment.
- High variability in S100A12 excretion might limit its utility as a sole predictive biomarker for NEC in VLBW infants.
