Preterm Infant with Abdominal Distention, Rapid Deterioration, and Cutaneous Abdominal Blood Vessel Findings

Abstract

A preterm infant presents with loose stools, abdominal distention, progressive lethargy, rapid deterioration, and cutaneous abdominal blood vessel findings. ### Prenatal and Birth Histories The infant was admitted to the NICU with a birthweight of 1,020 g (50%) and transitioned from nasal prong CPAP to high-flow nasal cannula 1 day after birth. The infant initially received total parenteral nutrition and advanced to full enteral feedings (premature commercial formula) 12 days after birth. Twenty-one days after birth, the infant was noted to have loose, pasty yellow stools and mild abdominal distention. The next morning, the loose stools transitioned to normal but the abdominal distention became more significant. ### Vital Signs (Day 22, AM)