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Early Biomarkers in Neonatal Necrotizing Enterocolitis: A Pilot Study
Mohamed Shawky Elfarargy1, Mohamed S El Farargy2, Marwa Mohamed Atef3
1Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, Jouf and Tanta University, KSA and Egypt. farargy2009@hotmail.com.
Summary
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a serious neonatal disease. Fecal calprotectin (FCP), epithelial neutrophil activating peptide-78 (ENA-78), and procalcitonin (PCT) show promise as early diagnostic markers for NEC.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Gastroenterology
- Biomarker Research
Background:
- Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a severe gastrointestinal disease in newborns, contributing significantly to neonatal morbidity and mortality.
- Early detection and management of NEC are crucial for improving patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the potential of various biomarkers for the early and sensitive detection of neonatal NEC.
- To assess fecal calprotectin (FCP), serum procalcitonin (PCT), hs-CRP, ENA-78, IL-18, MDA, and TAC as diagnostic indicators for NEC.
Main Methods:
- A prospective case-control study involving 20 healthy neonates and 20 neonates with NEC.
- Measurement of FCP, hs-CRP, PCT, ENA-78, IL-18, MDA, and TAC levels.
- Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis for key biomarkers.
Main Results:
- Elevated levels of FCP, hs-CRP, PCT, ENA-78, IL-18, and MDA were observed in the NEC group compared to controls.
- A decreased level of total antioxidant capacity (TAC) was noted in neonates with NEC.
Conclusions:
- Fecal calprotectin (FCP), epithelial neutrophil activating peptide-78 (ENA-78), and procalcitonin (PCT) demonstrate potential as early diagnostic markers for NEC.
- These biomarkers may aid in the timely diagnosis and management of necrotizing enterocolitis in neonates.
