Research Links CMV to Necrotizing Enterocolitis in NICU Infants

Researchers published the results of a study in The Journal of Pediatrics that further links cytomegalovirus (CMV) with necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) or spontaneous intestinal perforation (SIP).

The study reviewed data over a seventeen-year period and discovered that 4% of infants with necrotizing enterocolitis had the intestinal infection CMV. All infants in the study were diagnosed with at least Bell stage 2 NEC or SIP between the years 2000 and 2016.

Pediatric neonatologist and infectious disease specialist at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Pablo J. Sanchez, MD tells Infectious Diseases in Children:

“CMV is an increasingly recognized pathogen among infants in the NICU, and postnatally acquired CMV infection has been attributed to ingestion of CMV-containing maternal milk.”

He went on to say that infants who are found to have CMV should be treated, and he recommends that all infants be screened for CMV infection. There currently are no recommendations for CMV testing for infants who have been diagnosed with necrotizing enterocolitis. Sanchez says:

“Such universal testing may assist in determining a causal relationship between CMV infection and NEC or SIP that could lead to therapeutic or preventive strategies.”

While NEC can develop without medical negligence being present, physicians have a responsibility to take immediate action once it is suspected to minimize harm to the infant. Treatment will generally consist of:

• Stopping feedings to provide bowel rest
• Fluid replacement
• Decompression of the intestines using intermittent suction
• Blood pressure support
• Administration of antibiotics

If your infant suffered serious, permanent intestinal injuries or died as a result of untreated or poorly treated NEC, you could have a valid medical malpractice claim. Be sure to contact an experienced medical malpractice attorney to discuss the specifics of your case right away.

Our NEC Lawyers Are Ready to Fight For You

If your child suffered harm due to untreated NEC, you’ll need an experienced legal team to help you hold the negligent medical professionals and facility accountable. The New York NEC lawyers of Finz & Finz, P.C., have specific experience handling these types of cases, and our track record of success includes a $9,750,000 settlement on behalf of a family in Pennsylvania.

Our team will be ready to sit down with you to listen to your story and discuss your legal options when you call 1-855-TOP-FIRM and schedule a free consultation with us today.