HomeAnswersPediatricsmeconium aspiration syndromeWhat is meconium aspiration syndrome?

How does meconium aspiration syndrome affect a newborn?

Share

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Sneha Kannan

Published At February 20, 2016
Reviewed AtAugust 16, 2023

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

My daughter born seven days back is suffering from meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS). I would like to know, how we measure her growth of lung capacity.

Answered by Dr. Gunda Srinivas

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

In newborns measurement of lung capacity is not as useful as in adults.

Important clinical signs of respiratory effort, respiratory rate and the X-rays that had showed the meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS) and also the general condition of baby. These are the important parameters that show the improvement rather than just lung capacity.

I hope this helps.

Thank you and take care.

Regards.

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor,

On HFO ventilation she has 100% saturation now which has improved from 40% on 1st day. Efforts are in progress to move her to conventional ventilator, but her saturation falls to around 85% in it within two hours. On 1st day she was administered surfactant to improve lung capacity. Her X-rays have shown over 50% improvement (it was whiteout on 1st day). I would like to know what additional measures can be taken to improve her lung capacity so that she sustains on conventional ventilator. She had shown severe PPHN as well four days back.

Answered by Dr. Gunda Srinivas

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I can make out that the medical team there is doing a great job for your baby.

Persistent pulmonary hypertension (PPHN) is a known complication of meconium aspiration syndrome, expected in such babies. Clinically too the baby's condition suggests PPHN. PPHN management is mainly ventilation with HFO (high frequency oscillatory ventilator). If not much improvement, some other group of medication can be tried depending upon baby's condition and the experience of the team. Medications like pulmonary vasodilators - Sildenafil, Bosentan can be tried. But, they have their own complications and have to be used upon clinician's discretion and baby's condition. Please understand your baby's condition from the medical team's counseling and follow their advice. Wishing a speedy recovery of your baby!

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Gunda Srinivas
Dr. Gunda Srinivas

Pediatrics

Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Pediatrics

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy