Oral gastrografin in neonates: A note of caution

Hyperosmolar feeds are known to increase gastrointestinal permeability, predisposing to absorption of toxins. They are also associated with necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) in neonates. A case of a neonate with suspected NEC who died following Gram-negative septicaemia possibly related to oral gastrografin is reported. Hyperosmolarity of gastrografin may have caused complete loss of mucosal integrity in the compromised bowel leading to Gram-negative septicaemia.