RECTAL BLEEDING DUE TO NONSPECIFIC COLITIS IN PREMATURE-INFANTS

Rectal bleeding is not uncommon in newborn infants. Anal fissures are regarded as the most common cause. We report two cases in which the pr esence of an anal fissure delayed the diagnosis of nonspecific colitis in premature infants. Rectosigmoidoscopic and biopsy findings are dis cussed with regard to the heterogeneous group of disorders associated with isolated rectal bleeding in young infants. These procedures may b e helpful in ruling out necrotizing enterocolitis in premature infants .