T and Tk antigen activation in necrotising enterocolitis: manifestations, severity of illness, and effectiveness of testing

Abstract

In a retrospective case-control study, routine testing of at risk infants increased the detection rate of T and Tk antigen activation. The use of low titre T plasma products in these patients did not reduce mortality compared with historical controls. A randomised controlled trial of testing in at risk infants, or of the use of low titre T plasma products in babies with NEC and T activation, is warranted.