Meconium peritonitis in a preterm infant: a surgical emergency

Authors

  • Priyanka Yadav Department of Neonatology, Bai Jerbai Wadia Hospital for Children, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
  • Ankit Agarwal Department of Pediatrics, Ascension Sacred Heart Hospital, University of Florida, Pensacola, Florida, USA

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/2349-3291.ijcp20211090

Keywords:

Meconium peritonitis, Intestinal obstruction, Intestinal perforation

Abstract

Meconium peritonitis is sterile chemical peritonitis that occurs after intestinal perforation resulting in meconium leakage and subsequent inflammatory cascade within the peritoneal cavity. The clinical presentations after birth can range from completely sealed-off peritonitis without any symptoms, to severe peritonitis requiring emergency surgical intervention. We describe a case of meconium peritonitis in a premature infant following intestinal perforation. In the immediate postnatal period, the patient was intubated and a peritoneal drain was placed. Laparotomy with bowel resection was performed the following day. The postoperative course was uneventful and the patient was discharged home in good clinical condition.

Author Biographies

Priyanka Yadav, Department of Neonatology, Bai Jerbai Wadia Hospital for Children, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

Neonatology

Ankit Agarwal, Department of Pediatrics, Ascension Sacred Heart Hospital, University of Florida, Pensacola, Florida, USA

Pediatrics

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Published

2021-03-23

Issue

Section

Case Reports