Sahel Medical Journal

REVIEW ARTICLE
Year
: 1999  |  Volume : 2  |  Issue : 1  |  Page : 7--14

The passage of meconium in-utero and meconium aspiration syndrome in the newborn-An update


KI Airede1, LR Audu2 
1 Departments of *Paediatrics, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, Nigeria
2 Departments of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, Nigeria

Correspondence Address:
K I Airede
Departments of *Paediatrics, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto
Nigeria

Meconium passage in-utero and its subsequent staining of the amniotic fluid and the meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS) are common occurrences faced by health workers/health care providers. Un fortunately, our knowledge of the pathophysiological stimuli in the fetus that govern the passage of meconium is response to stress, as well as our understanding of MAS as a clinical entity is still incomplete. Since MAS remains very much with u s, we have attempted in this review paper to lay emphasis upon the pathophysiologic mechanisms of the problem(s), and harp on the management strategies- particularly on modalities of reducing the severity of an established disease or its overall prevention. In this regard, for example, because the incidence of cardiorespiratory depression and asphyxia are significantly inreased in cases complicated by both meconium passage and fetal heart rate abnormalities, we feel it is preferable to monitor very closely such fetuses prior to/during labour, with skilled peri- �SQ� and neo-natal resuscitation. at ultimate delivery to avoid MAS. It is easier preventing then treating this morbidity.


How to cite this article:
Airede K I, Audu L R. The passage of meconium in-utero and meconium aspiration syndrome in the newborn-An update.Sahel Med J 1999;2:7-14


How to cite this URL:
Airede K I, Audu L R. The passage of meconium in-utero and meconium aspiration syndrome in the newborn-An update. Sahel Med J [serial online] 1999 [cited 2024 Mar 29 ];2:7-14
Available from: https://www.smjonline.org/article.asp?issn=1118-8561;year=1999;volume=2;issue=1;spage=7;epage=14;aulast=Airede;type=0