which has been shown to promote cell proliferation,
migration, and mucosal repair during injury, is a potentially
protective growth factor present in human milk86 and amniotic
fluid. Preliminary clinical studies suggest that EGF
levels may predict neonates at risk for NEC. Animal
studies suggest that EGF administration may reduce NEC
severity. However, EGF is expensive and evidence from
research suggested that the use of EGF might be associated
with a variety of problems and side effects, and that
careful selection of patients and evaluation of risk-benefit
ratios are necessary. Thus, routine clinical use of EGF is
not an option for the prevention of NEC.