A mother has just given birth to a 42-week infant who is small for his gestational age. A chest radiograph of this neonate reveals coarse, patchy opacities secondary to atelectasis from bronchial obstruction alternating with areas of hyperinflation. Which of the following clinical disorders does this infant likely have?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Although meconium staining of amniotic fluid occurs in 12% of deliveries, only 2% of these newborns develop meconium aspiration syndrome. Predisposing factors are postmaturity, intrauterine stress, and small size for gestational age. The aspirated meconium is produced by the bowel plugs' bronchi and causes a chemical pneumonitis. The chest radiograph is characterized by coarse, patchy opacities secondary to atelectasis from bronchial obstruction alternating with areas of hyperinflation.

A Mother Has Just Given Birth to a 42-Week Infant