Published online Mar 9, 2026. doi: 10.5409/wjcp.v15.i1.114242
Revised: October 14, 2025
Accepted: December 2, 2025
Published online: March 9, 2026
Processing time: 171 Days and 14.9 Hours
Umbilical venous catheterisation (UVC) is frequently used in neonates but may be complicated by malposition or migration. Extravasation is rare and can mimic other abdominal pathologies.
We report a preterm infant, born at 27 weeks’ gestation, who developed bilateral pneumothorax and spontaneous intestinal perforation requiring drainage. On day 8, the infant clinically deteriorated with persistent high-volume clear peritoneal drain output and worsening dehydration despite fluid escalation. Abdominal radiography confirmed UVC migration into the liver with possible extravasation. Following catheter removal, peritoneal drainage reduced dramatically, and the infant improved rapidly. He was discharged at 38 weeks’ corrected age and remained well with age-appropriate development.
UVC extravasation can masquerade as high-output peritoneal drainage in the setting of intestinal perforation, thereby delaying diagnosis. Persistent, unusually high peritoneal drainage should prompt consideration of catheter leakage. This rare presentation expands the spectrum of UVC-related complications described in the literature and emphasizes the importance of prompt recognition and management.
Core Tip: We describe the first case of umbilical venous catheterization extravasation masquerading as high-output peritoneal drainage in the context of spontaneous intestinal perforation. Unlike typical presentations of abdominal distension or metabolic derangements, our patient exhibited persistently clear drain output, delaying diagnosis. Radiographic confirmation and prompt catheter removal led to rapid recovery. This case underscores the need for vigilance, early imaging, and multidisciplinary collaboration when managing unexplained peritoneal drainage in preterm infants with central lines.