[Serum CK-BB. A biochemical marker in neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis]

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Neonatalogy
• Pediatric Gastroenterology

Background:

• Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a serious gastrointestinal condition affecting preterm infants.
• Early diagnosis and monitoring of NEC are crucial for improving patient outcomes.
• Biomarkers for NEC diagnosis and management are actively sought.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the utility of serum creatine kinase-BB (CK-BB) isoenzyme measurement in diagnosing NEC in high-risk preterm neonates.
• To determine if CK-BB serves as an effective marker for monitoring the disease progression and recovery from NEC.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study involving 72 high-risk preterm neonates.
• Serum CK-BB levels were measured at birth and post-feeding.
• In 12 NEC neonates, CK-BB was monitored from symptom onset to remission.
• Control groups included healthy preterm neonates and those with non-NEC diarrhea.
• CK isoenzymes were analyzed using electrophoresis.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in CK-BB levels were observed between control groups.
• Serum CK-BB levels were significantly elevated (p < 0.001) at symptom onset in neonates with NEC compared to controls.
• CK-BB levels remained elevated throughout the acute phase and normalized upon recovery from NEC.

Conclusions:

• Serum CK-BB isoenzyme is a valuable diagnostic marker for NEC in preterm neonates.
• CK-BB levels effectively track the clinical course and evolution of NEC.
• This biomarker shows promise for clinical application in managing NEC.