PEDIATRICS Vol. 78 No. 6 December 1986, pp. 1173
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Urine Specific Gravity As an Indicator of Neonatal Necrotizing Enterocolitis

MARY JO STINE MD1 and HOWARD HARRIS MD1

1 Regional Center for Mothers and Babies, Methodist Hospital of Indiana, 1701 N Senate Blvd, Indianapolis, IN 46202

To the Editor.—

We have noted a large increase in urine specific gravity at the onset of necrotizing enterocolitis in many of our premature newborns. A statistical review of 27 cases of necrotizing enterocolitis at our institution has confirmed a significant increase (P < .0001) in urine specific gravity associated with this disease. The difference persisted despite correction for glucosuria. The increase in urine specific gravity is probably secondary to third-space fluid losses in the gastrointestinal tract.1

Urine specific gravity is a routine test in most neonatal intensive care units.