A 3-day-old 30-week preterm neonate on day 2 of life develops abdominal distension and bilious vomiting. Abdominal X-ray shows pneumatosis intestinalis. Blood pressure is stable and there is no evidence of bowel perforation. According to Bell's staging, what is the stage of necrotizing enterocolitis?
- A Stage I (Suspected)
- B Stage II (Definite) ✓
- C Stage III (Advanced)
- D Stage IV (Perforated)
Correct answer: B. Stage II (Definite)
Explanation
Bell's stage II (definite) NEC includes systemic signs plus abdominal signs and the characteristic radiographic finding of pneumatosis intestinalis. Stage III indicates advanced disease with deterioration, hypotension, or perforation. Stage I is mild and nonspecific.
Reference: Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics, 21st ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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