Pneumatosis Intestinalis in a Well-Appearing Preterm Infant: An Unusual Presentation of Protein-Induced Proctocolitis
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Case Report
Abstract: Introduction: It is well known that food protein-induced allergic proctocolitis (FPIAP) usually presents with bloody stools in otherwise healthy infants, but there are only a few reports discussing its potential association with pneumatosis intestinalis. Case Presentation: A preterm infant, born at 33 weeks of gestation, developed bloody stools while on full enteral feeds of breast milk and preterm formula. His physical examination was unremarkable. Abdominal radiographs revealed pneumatosis affecting the whole colon and rectum, prompting withholding of feeds and initiation of broad-spectrum antibiotics. The infant remained well appearing at all times and did not develop laboratory abnormalities. Antibiotics were discontinued after 72 h of treatment, and feeds were resumed with dairy-free mother’s milk supplemented with extensively hydrolyzed formula without further concerns. The clinical picture of this patient and his response to dietary modification are highly suggestive of FPIAP. Conclusion: Though pneumatosis is strongly associated with necrotizing enterocolitis, FPIAP should also be considered in infants who are well appearing, have a normal abdominal exam, and lack systemic signs of illness.
Source: Maternal and Children s Health
DOI: 10.1159/000549715
Authors: Shanze Gilani, Hala Saneh, Michael Baldwin, Naveed Hussain
Language: English
Subfield: Immunology and Allergy
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4417247076