Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 2, 2026

Microfluidic Model of Necrotizing Enterocolitis Incorporating Human Neonatal Intestinal Enteroids and a Dysbiotic Microbiome
06:51

Microfluidic Model of Necrotizing Enterocolitis Incorporating Human Neonatal Intestinal Enteroids and a Dysbiotic Microbiome

Published on: July 28, 2023

Meconium-related ileus in extremely low-birthweight neonates: etiological considerations from histology and radiology

Akio Kubota1, Jun Shiraishi, Hisayoshi Kawahara

  • 1Department of Pediatric Surgery, Osaka Medical Center and Research Institute for Maternal and Child Health, Osaka, Japan. kubota@mch.pref.osaka.jp

Pediatrics International : Official Journal of the Japan Pediatric Society
|April 14, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Meconium-related ileus in extremely low-birthweight neonates is not caused by immature ganglia. Obstruction results from excessive water absorption in the fetal bowel before birth, leading to inspissated meconium.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal Surgery
  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Fetal Development

Background:

  • Neonatal intestinal perforation mortality has risen, particularly in extremely low-birthweight (ELBW) neonates.
  • The pathogenesis of meconium-related ileus remains unclear, distinguishing it from NEC and FIP.
  • Increasing survival rates of ELBW neonates contribute to a higher incidence of intestinal perforation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the pathogenesis of meconium-related ileus in ELBW neonates.
  • To determine if morphological immaturity of ganglia contributes to meconium-related ileus.
  • To elucidate the cause of obstruction in meconium-related ileus.

Main Methods:

  • Histological review of 13 ELBW neonates with meconium-related ileus and 16 age-matched controls.
  • Radiological review of 33 cases of meconium-related ileus diagnosed via contrast enema.
  • Comparison of ganglion cell nucleus size between cases and controls.

Main Results:

  • No significant difference in ganglion cell nucleus size between neonates with meconium-related ileus and controls.
  • Contrast enema revealed microcolon, gradual ileal caliber changes, and meconium filling defects in all meconium-related ileus cases.
  • Locations of caliber changes and filling defects were not identical.

Conclusions:

  • Morphological immaturity of ganglia is unlikely to be the cause of meconium-related ileus.
  • Inspissated meconium is a consequence, not the cause, of obstruction.
  • Excessive water absorption in hypoperistaltic fetal bowel is implicated, though the mechanism of hypoperistalsis is unknown.
Abstract

More Related Videos

A Neonatal BALB/c Mouse Model of Necrotizing Enterocolitis05:39

A Neonatal BALB/c Mouse Model of Necrotizing Enterocolitis

Published on: November 30, 2021

Related Concept Videos

Intestinal Obstruction II: Pathophysiology01:07

Intestinal Obstruction II: Pathophysiology

Intestinal obstruction triggers a series of physiological responses, starting with gas and fluid accumulation in the bowel segment proximal to the obstruction, leading to distension. This distended intestine compresses the diaphragm, hindering lung expansion and potentially leading to reduced respiratory effort, atelectasis, and pneumonia.To overcome the blockage, the gut intensifies contractions, causing colicky abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, which reduces fluid and food intake and...
Intestinal Obstruction I: Introduction01:29

Intestinal Obstruction I: Introduction

Intestinal obstruction is a partial or complete blockage of the small or large intestine that disrupts the normal flow of intestinal contents through the lumen. This interruption impairs digestion, absorption, and fluid balance, and may lead to serious complications if not treated promptly.Mechanical ObstructionMechanical obstruction occurs when a physical blockage prevents intestinal contents from passing, arising from within the lumen or the bowel wall, or from external compression.Adhesions,...
Assessment of the Rectum and Anus01:25

Assessment of the Rectum and Anus

Evaluating the rectum and anus plays a crucial role in conducting a thorough physical examination of the gastrointestinal system. Although it may be uncomfortable and often embarrassing for the patient, it holds immense diagnostic value, particularly in detecting gastrointestinal diseases and abnormalities. This guide will explain how to perform this assessment using inspection and palpation methods.
Rectal Inspection
Begin by inspecting the perianal and anal areas for color, texture, rashes,...
Histology of the Small Intestine01:27

Histology of the Small Intestine

The small intestine exhibits a unique histological structure that significantly enhances its function in digestion and nutrient absorption. These structures include circular folds, villi, and various specialized cells that collectively facilitate the digestion of food.
The intestinal lining features transverse folds called circular folds, each housing fingerlike projections known as intestinal villi. These villi are covered by a layer of simple columnar epithelium, also referred to as...
Appendicitis-I: Introduction01:22

Appendicitis-I: Introduction

The appendix, a small, narrow, blind tube extending from the inferior part of the cecum, is widely regarded as a vestigial organ, having lost much of its original function through evolution. Despite its diminished role, the appendix can become inflamed, a condition known as appendicitis.
Etiology: Appendicitis can arise from various causes, primarily rooted in the obstruction of the appendix lumen. Factors contributing to this obstruction include fecal accumulation, lymphoid hyperplasia and, in...
Lower GI Series: Barium Enema01:23

Lower GI Series: Barium Enema

A Barium Enema, or a lower GI series, is a specialized radiographic examination designed to visualize the lower gastrointestinal tract, specifically the colon and rectum. This procedure is instrumental in diagnosing various conditions such as colorectal cancer, polyps, diverticulosis, and inflammatory bowel disease.
Procedure Details
The examination begins by inserting a lubricated rectal tube into the patient's rectum to administer a radiopaque barium solution. The barium flow is carefully...