Neonatal (newborn) melena is a medical term that describes the presence of black stool in a newborn baby. This condition can be caused by various reasons, such as gastrointestinal infections, malabsorption of nutrients, and certain medications that may be used to treat newborns.
Neonatal melena can have serious consequences for a baby's health, so it is important to identify and treat this condition promptly. Treatment may include antibiotics, probiotics, and changes in the mother's diet if necessary.
However, neonatal melena should not be confused with true melena, a condition in which black stool is a symptom of a serious illness such as bowel cancer or other internal bleeding. In this case, you must immediately consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
In general, neonatal melena is an important indicator of the health of the newborn and requires timely consultation with a doctor. If you have any questions or concerns about your child's health, be sure to contact your pediatrician or other health care professional for advice and assistance.