A newborn male begins vomiting a few hours after birth. Physical examination reveals tachypnea, intercostal retractions, and grunting respirations. The next day he develops abdominal distention. The child should be screened for:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The newborn's symptoms are consistent with meconium ileus, which is a complication of cystic fibrosis. The vomiting, respiratory distress, and abdominal distention are all indicative of a blockage in the intestines caused by thick, sticky meconium. This is more common in babies with cystic fibrosis, a genetic disorder that affects the respiratory and digestive systems, than in babies who do not have the condition.

A Newborn Male Begins Vomiting a Few Hours After Birth