A Preterm Infant With Mild Abdominal Distension and Rising C-Reactive Protein

Abstract

Abdominal distension is a common clinical presentation in neonates admitted to neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), especially preterm infants. The underlying causes are multiple and range from simple transient etiologies to life-threatening events with significant morbidities. Neonatal sepsis is the most common diagnosis encountered; however, other differential diagnoses should be thought. Premature neonates are particularly susceptible to abdominal distension because of gut immaturity, relative immune deficiency and frequent exposure to invasive procedures. Herein, we report a preterm infant who developed abdominal distension and hepatomegaly on day 4 of life. This was associated with progressively rising C-reactive protein (CRP) levels and normal abdominal X-ray. Bed side abdominal ultrasonography revealed the diagnosis.