Meconium-stained amniotic fluid viscosity and chest x-ray findings
Abstract: Approximately 8-15%
of all infants are born with evidence of meconium-stained amniotic fluid (MSAF).
Many of these infants rapidly initiate a good respiratory response and are
otherwise vigorous. Other infants present with a variety of respiratory
distress. Chest x-ray imaging is the main test done to evaluate respiratory
distress in order to differentiate pulmonary and extrapulmonary etiologies.
Objective To determine the relationship between viscosity of MSAF and
chest x-ray imaging results.
Methods This cross-sectional study was held from January to June 2011, as
a continuation of a previous study from August 2009 to May 2010 at Kariadi
Hospital, Semarang, Indonesia. Data was taken from medical records of babies
who were born with MSAF. MSAF viscosity measurements by the investigator and
laboratory technician were assessed by Kappa test in the previous study with a
result of 0.74. X-ray findings were determined by the radiologist on duty at
that time. Chi square and logistic regressiontests were used for statistical
analysis.
Results There were 48 subjects consisting of 26 males and 22 females.
Chest x-ray imaging results showed normal findings in 33.3% of subjects,
pneumonia in 58.3% of subjects and meconium aspiration syndrome in 8.3% of subjects.
Thick viscosity MSAF was significantly correlated to abnormal x-ray imaging
(RR=2.046; P=0.004; 95%CI 1.12 to 3.72).
Conclusion Thick MSAF viscosity significantly increased the risk of
abnormal chest x-ray findings.
Author: Ricki M Rajagukguk, M
Sholeh Kosim, Arsita Eka Rini, F Mardiana
Journal Code: jpkedokterangg120133
