MECONIUM ASPIRATION SYNDROME : A CLINICAL STUDY

Area of Science:

• Neonatalogy
• Pediatrics
• Obstetrics

Background:

• Meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS) is a significant cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality.
• Understanding the incidence and risk factors associated with MAS is crucial for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the clinical characteristics, management, and outcomes of neonates with MAS.
• To identify potential risk factors and complications associated with MAS in a service hospital setting.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 42 neonates diagnosed with MAS and managed in a neonatal intensive care unit.
• Data collected included delivery route, meconium consistency, gestational age, presence of asphyxia, seizures, pneumonia, air leak syndrome, and mortality.

Main Results:

• The incidence of MAS was 1.7%, with 33 out of 42 cases involving thick meconium.
• Birth asphyxia (27 cases) and seizures (13 cases) were common complications, alongside pneumonia (32 cases) and air leak syndrome (6 cases).
• Overall mortality was 31% (13 out of 42 infants).

Conclusions:

• Thick meconium and birth asphyxia are strongly associated with MAS and adverse outcomes.
• The high mortality rate highlights the severity of MAS and the need for prompt and intensive neonatal care.
• Further research into preventative strategies and optimized management protocols for MAS is warranted.