Plasma citrulline during the first 48 hours after onset of necrotizing enterocolitis in preterm infants

Study of 48 preterm infants with NEC shows plasma citrulline levels decline in first 48 hours, indicating ongoing intestinal injury. Early citrulline measurements (0-24h) may predict intestinal recovery rate, with levels above 12.3 μmol/L associated with faster return to full enteral feeding.