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| Case
of the Month |
by Dr
Noreen Norfaraheen Lee Abdullah
MD (UKM),
MMed Radiology (UKM), AM(Mal)
Answer to Case Of the Month
Meconium Plug Syndrome
Discussion of Findings
Contrast enema showed a moderately dilated
colon filled with radiolucent material: the meconium plug.
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Meconium
Plug Syndrome |
This
is a form of neonatal intestinal obstruction. It occurs as a result of
colonic inertia with failure of passage of meconium from the colon. There is
transient distal colon or rectal obstruction caused by inspissated meconium.
Typical presentation will be a term newborn with symptoms of intestinal
obstruction on the second to third day of life. Many patients have no
apparent risk factors.
Meconium plug syndrome is also observed in premature infants of diabetic
mothers and in infants whose mothers received magnesium sulfate for
treatment of toxemia. Newborns with cystic fibrosis may present with
meconium plug syndrome, although meconium ileus is more frequent and
characteristic in these patients.
The signs include vomiting (bilious or non bilious), abdominal distension
and failure to pass meconium in the first 24 hours of life. Radiographs show
low intestinal obstruction with numerous dilated bowel loops. An enema is
indicated at this instance.
Barium can be used and the diagnosis is made when the meconium plug is
outlined. Barium enema can also be therapeutic and with rectal stimulation
will successfully induce the passage of the meconium.
Water-soluble contrast is preferred, as it aids in expelling the meconium
plugs. Gastrografin is employed, which is a hypertonic solution containing
both wetting and detergent agents which aids tremendously in expelling the
plug. However, complications secondary to hyperosmolarity can occur that
might produce dehydration. Therefore it is important the baby is well
hydrated before the procedure.
Generally, infants with meconium plug syndrome have normal bowel function
after passing the meconium plug. The response to the enema is often
dramatic, with immediate passage of meconium and resolution of intestinal
dilatation. In some patients, clinical findings persist and a second enema
may be performed for therapy.
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| About
the Author |
Dr Noreen, a Consultant
Radiologist is currently with the Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian,
Kelantan, Malaysia.
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Last Updated:
Tuesday, 04 January 2005 |
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