What is the common outcome if necrotizing enterocolitis is left untreated?

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a severe gastrointestinal condition predominantly seen in premature infants, characterized by inflammation and necrosis of the intestine. If left untreated, necrotizing enterocolitis can progress to significant complications, most notably bowel perforation and widespread peritonitis.

The most concerning outcome of untreated NEC is the potential development of short-bowel syndrome, which occurs when a significant length of the intestine has to be surgically resected due to necrotic damage. This reduction in bowel length can lead to malabsorption of nutrients, diarrhea, and the need for long-term nutritional support.

In contrast, complete resolution of NEC typically requires timely diagnosis and intervention, whereas untreated cases often result in severe sequelae. Chronic diarrhea can arise as a consequence of the malabsorption that may follow resection, but it is not the immediate outcome if the condition remains unmanaged. Cirrhosis, a liver condition, is unrelated to NEC and does not result from it.