Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy in 107 newborns

Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is frequently used in the neonatal period The aim of this study was to assess the frequency of the different lesions occurring as well as to precise indications of upper gastrointestinal endoscopy in neonates. Population and methods. - A retrospective study including 107 neonates referred between October 1966 and April 1995 has been achieved in the pediatric gastroenterology unit of the Lille University Hospital. Various factors were analysed: gestational age, sex, reasons for endoscopy and macroscopic lesions observed. Three groups were constituted according to macroscopic findings; group I: normal aspect (n = 22); group II: isolated esophagitis (n = 27); group III; esogastritis or gastroduodenitis or esogastroduodenitis (n = 38), chi(2) test was performed for statistical ntlnlysis. Results. - Signs recalling esophagitis (cry during feeding) were more frequent in group II than in group III: 37% vs 13% (P < 0.03). The neonates undergoing endoscopy for life-threatening events were more frequent in group I than in group II or III, respectively: 59% rs 15% (P < 0.01) and 59% vs 8% (P < 10(-4)). Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy led to a precise diagnosis in 80% of the neonates. However 95% of those examined for hematemesis presented macroscopic lesions. Conclusion. - Hematemesis and suspicion of esophagitis are good indications for upper gastrointestinal endoscopy in neonatal period. In life-threatening events and suspicion of pyloric stenosis, upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is only complementary of more contributive other examinations.