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Gallo DM, Romero R, Bosco M, Gotsch F, Jaiman S, Jung E, Suksai M, Ramón Y Cajal CL, Yoon BH, Chaiworapongsa T. Meconium-stained amniotic fluid. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2023; 228:S1158-S1178. [PMID: 37012128 PMCID: PMC10291742 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2022.11.1283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 04/04/2023]
Abstract
Green-stained amniotic fluid, often referred to as meconium-stained amniotic fluid, is present in 5% to 20% of patients in labor and is considered an obstetric hazard. The condition has been attributed to the passage of fetal colonic content (meconium), intraamniotic bleeding with the presence of heme catabolic products, or both. The frequency of green-stained amniotic fluid increases as a function of gestational age, reaching approximately 27% in post-term gestation. Green-stained amniotic fluid during labor has been associated with fetal acidemia (umbilical artery pH <7.00), neonatal respiratory distress, and seizures as well as cerebral palsy. Hypoxia is widely considered a mechanism responsible for fetal defecation and meconium-stained amniotic fluid; however, most fetuses with meconium-stained amniotic fluid do not have fetal acidemia. Intraamniotic infection/inflammation has emerged as an important factor in meconium-stained amniotic fluid in term and preterm gestations, as patients with these conditions have a higher rate of clinical chorioamnionitis and neonatal sepsis. The precise mechanisms linking intraamniotic inflammation to green-stained amniotic fluid have not been determined, but the effects of oxidative stress in heme catabolism have been implicated. Two randomized clinical trials suggest that antibiotic administration decreases the rate of clinical chorioamnionitis in patients with meconium-stained amniotic fluid. A serious complication of meconium-stained amniotic fluid is meconium aspiration syndrome. This condition develops in 5% of cases presenting with meconium-stained amniotic fluid and is a severe complication typical of term newborns. Meconium aspiration syndrome is attributed to the mechanical and chemical effects of aspirated meconium coupled with local and systemic fetal inflammation. Routine naso/oropharyngeal suctioning and tracheal intubation in cases of meconium-stained amniotic fluid have not been shown to be beneficial and are no longer recommended in obstetrical practice. A systematic review of randomized controlled trials suggested that amnioinfusion may decrease the rate of meconium aspiration syndrome. Histologic examination of the fetal membranes for meconium has been invoked in medical legal litigation to time the occurrence of fetal injury. However, inferences have been largely based on the results of in vitro experiments, and extrapolation of such findings to the clinical setting warrants caution. Fetal defecation throughout gestation appears to be a physiologic phenomenon based on ultrasound as well as in observations in animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dahiana M Gallo
- Pregnancy Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, United States Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI; Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Universidad Del Valle, Cali, Colombia
| | - Roberto Romero
- Pregnancy Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, United States Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI.
| | - Mariachiara Bosco
- Pregnancy Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, United States Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Francesca Gotsch
- Pregnancy Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, United States Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Sunil Jaiman
- Pregnancy Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, United States Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI; Department of Pathology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Eunjung Jung
- Pregnancy Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, United States Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Manaphat Suksai
- Pregnancy Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, United States Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Carlos López Ramón Y Cajal
- Unit of Prenatal Diagnosis, Service of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Álvaro Cunqueiro Hospital, Vigo, Spain
| | - Bo Hyun Yoon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Tinnakorn Chaiworapongsa
- Pregnancy Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, United States Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
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Giovannini E, Bonasoni MP, Pascali JP, Giorgetti A, Pelletti G, Gargano G, Pelotti S, Fais P. Infection Induced Fetal Inflammatory Response Syndrome (FIRS): State-of- the-Art and Medico-Legal Implications-A Narrative Review. Microorganisms 2023; 11:microorganisms11041010. [PMID: 37110434 PMCID: PMC10142209 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11041010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Fetal inflammatory response syndrome (FIRS) represents the fetal inflammatory reaction to intrauterine infection or injury, potentially leading to multiorgan impairment, neonatal mortality, and morbidity. Infections induce FIRS after chorioamnionitis (CA), defined as acute maternal inflammatory response to amniotic fluid infection, acute funisitis and chorionic vasculitis. FIRS involves many molecules, i.e., cytokines and/or chemokines, able to directly or indirectly damage fetal organs. Therefore, due to FIRS being a condition with a complex etiopathogenesis and multiple organ dysfunction, especially brain injury, medical liability is frequently claimed. In medical malpractice, reconstruction of the pathological pathways is paramount. However, in cases of FIRS, ideal medical conduct is hard to delineate, due to uncertainty in diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of this highly complex condition. This narrative review revises the current knowledge of FIRS caused by infections, maternal and neonatal diagnosis and treatments, the main consequences of the disease and their prognoses, and discusses the medico-legal implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Giovannini
- Unit of Legal Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 49, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Maria Paola Bonasoni
- Pathology Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Via Amendola 2, 42122 Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Jennifer Paola Pascali
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35127 Padova, Italy
| | - Arianna Giorgetti
- Unit of Legal Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 49, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Guido Pelletti
- Unit of Legal Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 49, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Gargano
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Via Amendola 2, 42122 Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Susi Pelotti
- Unit of Legal Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 49, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Paolo Fais
- Unit of Legal Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 49, 40126 Bologna, Italy
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Li YT, Li CX, Huang CJ, Wen QY, Deng SM, Zhu LP, Liu ZF, Chen ZG. Meconium-Stained Amniotic Fluid: Impact on Prognosis of Neonatal Bacterial Meningitis. J Trop Pediatr 2022; 68:6665809. [PMID: 35962981 DOI: 10.1093/tropej/fmac064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Clinical data with respect to the impact of meconium on the prognosis of neonatal bacterial meningitis are scarce. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to determine whether meconium-stained amniotic fluid (MSAF) represents a risk factor for poor prognosis of neonatal bacterial meningitis in a confirmed case population. METHODS This was a retrospective cohort study of 256 neonates diagnosed with bacterial meningitis hospitalized at one of three hospitals in Shantou, China, between October 2013 and September 2018. Clinical manifestation, laboratory test results and treatment were compared between the two groups, with outcomes dichotomized into 'good' or 'poor' prognosis. Multivariate analysis and follow-up logistic regression analysis were used to identify predictive factors of a poor outcome. RESULTS Of the 256 neonates with BM, 95 (37.1%) had a good prognosis at discharge and 161 (62.9%) had a poor prognosis. In the poor prognosis group, 131/161 (79.4%) neonates had a permanent neurological sequelae and 19 (11.8%) had ≥2 sequelae. Of note, 11 neonates died. The rate of poor prognosis of BM was significantly higher among neonates with than without MSAF (26.1% vs. 12.6%, respectively; p < 0.05). A logistic multivariate analysis to evaluate the prognostic effect of MSAF to BM showed that neonatal with MSAF is more likely to have a worse prognosis of BM [unadjusted odds ratio (OR), 2.44, 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.24-5.10; adjusted OR, 2.31; 95% CI, 1.09-5.17]. CONCLUSION MSAF is significantly associated with poor prognosis of neonatal bacterial meningitis. Therefore, in case of MSAF, more attention should be paid to neonatal bacterial meningitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Ting Li
- Department of Pediatrics, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Cai-Xia Li
- Department of Pediatrics, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chu-Jun Huang
- Department of Pediatrics, Shantou Central Hospital, Shantou, China
| | - Qian-Yu Wen
- Clinical Data Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shu-Min Deng
- Department of Pediatrics, Shantou Central Hospital, Shantou, China
| | - Ling-Ping Zhu
- Department of Pediatrics, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zi-Feng Liu
- Clinical Data Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhuang-Gui Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
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Jung E, Romero R, Yeo L, Diaz-Primera R, Marin-Concha J, Para R, Lopez AM, Pacora P, Gomez-Lopez N, Yoon BH, Kim CJ, Berry SM, Hsu CD. The fetal inflammatory response syndrome: the origins of a concept, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and obstetrical implications. Semin Fetal Neonatal Med 2020; 25:101146. [PMID: 33164775 PMCID: PMC10580248 DOI: 10.1016/j.siny.2020.101146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The fetus can deploy a local or systemic inflammatory response when exposed to microorganisms or, alternatively, to non-infection-related stimuli (e.g., danger signals or alarmins). The term "Fetal Inflammatory Response Syndrome" (FIRS) was coined to describe a condition characterized by evidence of a systemic inflammatory response, frequently a result of the activation of the innate limb of the immune response. FIRS can be diagnosed by an increased concentration of umbilical cord plasma or serum acute phase reactants such as C-reactive protein or cytokines (e.g., interleukin-6). Pathologic evidence of a systemic fetal inflammatory response indicates the presence of funisitis or chorionic vasculitis. FIRS was first described in patients at risk for intraamniotic infection who presented preterm labor with intact membranes or preterm prelabor rupture of the membranes. However, FIRS can also be observed in patients with sterile intra-amniotic inflammation, alloimmunization (e.g., Rh disease), and active autoimmune disorders. Neonates born with FIRS have a higher rate of complications, such as early-onset neonatal sepsis, intraventricular hemorrhage, periventricular leukomalacia, and death, than those born without FIRS. Survivors are at risk for long-term sequelae that may include bronchopulmonary dysplasia, neurodevelopmental disorders, such as cerebral palsy, retinopathy of prematurity, and sensorineuronal hearing loss. Experimental FIRS can be induced by intra-amniotic administration of bacteria, microbial products (such as endotoxin), or inflammatory cytokines (such as interleukin-1), and animal models have provided important insights about the mechanisms responsible for multiple organ involvement and dysfunction. A systemic fetal inflammatory response is thought to be adaptive, but, on occasion, may become dysregulated whereby a fetal cytokine storm ensues and can lead to multiple organ dysfunction and even fetal death if delivery does not occur ("rescued by birth"). Thus, the onset of preterm labor in this context can be considered to have survival value. The evidence so far suggests that FIRS may compound the effects of immaturity and neonatal inflammation, thus increasing the risk of neonatal complications and long-term morbidity. Modulation of a dysregulated fetal inflammatory response by the administration of antimicrobial agents, anti-inflammatory agents, or cell-based therapy holds promise to reduce infant morbidity and mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunjung Jung
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Roberto Romero
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA; Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Medical Center, Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA.
| | - Lami Yeo
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Ramiro Diaz-Primera
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Julio Marin-Concha
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Robert Para
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Ashley M Lopez
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Percy Pacora
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Nardhy Gomez-Lopez
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Bo Hyun Yoon
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Chong Jai Kim
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Pathology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Stanley M Berry
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Chaur-Dong Hsu
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NICHD/NIH/DHHS), Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Physiology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
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Jacques SM, Qureshi F. Does in utero meconium passage in term stillbirth correlate with autopsy and placental findings of hypoxia or inflammation? J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2020; 35:1853-1859. [PMID: 32460571 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2020.1770217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Background: The cause of meconium passage in utero is controversial, traditionally being considered evidence of fetal stress and hypoxia, and also associated with intra-amniotic inflammation/infection. It is now recognized to also occur in the absence of fetal stress. Autopsy studies have shown that many term stillborns (SB) have hypoxic/ischemic brain injury and other evidence of stress preceding the time period immediately before demise, including acute thymic involution (ATI); however, these findings, along with placental findings, have not been previously correlated with meconium-stained amniotic fluid (MSAF).Methods: 35 structurally normal singleton term SB (21 early term, 14 full/late term) with complete autopsies, including brain and placental examination, were identified. MSAF was visually identified at delivery and confirmed on the placental examination. Autopsy evaluation included brain injury and ATI. Placental evaluation included maternal and fetal vascular malperfusion and acute and chronic inflammatory lesions. Demographic and clinical features were compared.Results: 18 (51%) SB had MSAF, and 17 (49%) had clear amniotic fluid (CAF). The was no significant difference in brain injury in the MSAF vs CAF group, including older gray matter injury (karyorrhexis) (67% vs 47%), recent gray matter injury (red neurons, but no karyorrhexis) (28% vs 35%), white matter injury (50% vs 29%), and hemorrhage (22% vs 24%). Severe ATI was more frequent in the MSAF vs CAF group (61% vs 24%, p = .04). There was no significant difference in placental lesions between groups, including acute maternal inflammation (39% vs 18%), acute fetal inflammation (6% vs 6%), fetal vascular malperfusion (11% vs 18%), maternal vascular malperfusion (39% vs 35%), and chronic inflammatory lesions (39% vs 29%). The MSAF group was more likely to be full/late term than early term (72% vs 28%), in contrast to the CAF group (6% vs 94%) (p = .0001). There was no difference in other clinical factors evaluated.Conclusions: 51% of term SB had MSAF, and, in contrast to the CAF group, these were significantly more likely to be full/late term. Brain injury was frequent in both MSAF and CAF groups, supporting hypoxia as the mechanism of demise in most of these SB. No placental lesions correlated with MSAF, including inflammation. This suggests that hypoxia is the cause of the MSAF in these SB, but that some additional biologic factor present in the full/late term SB, but not present in the early term SB, including possibly gastrointestinal maturation, is necessary for the meconium passage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne M Jacques
- Department of Pathology, Hutzel Women's Hospital, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Faisal Qureshi
- Department of Pathology, Hutzel Women's Hospital, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
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Saeed H, Jacques SM, Qureshi F. Meconium staining of the amniotic fluid and the presence and severity of acute placental inflammation: a study of term deliveries in a predominantly African-American population. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2017; 31:3172-3177. [DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2017.1366442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Haleema Saeed
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Suzanne M. Jacques
- Department of Pathology, Hutzel Women’s Hospital, Detroit Medical Center, and Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Faisal Qureshi
- Department of Pathology, Hutzel Women’s Hospital, Detroit Medical Center, and Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
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Lee J, Romero R, Lee KA, Kim EN, Korzeniewski SJ, Chaemsaithong P, Yoon BH. Meconium aspiration syndrome: a role for fetal systemic inflammation. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2016; 214:366.e1-9. [PMID: 26484777 PMCID: PMC5625352 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2015.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2015] [Revised: 09/26/2015] [Accepted: 10/07/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in term infants. Meconium-stained amniotic fluid (MSAF) occurs in approximately 1 of every 7 pregnancies, but only 5% of neonates exposed to MSAF develop MAS. Why some infants exposed to meconium develop MAS while others do not is a fundamental question. Patients with MSAF have a higher frequency of intraamniotic inflammation/infection than those with clear fluid. We propose that fetal systemic inflammation is a risk factor for the development of MAS in patients with MSAF. OBJECTIVE We sought to investigate whether intraamniotic inflammation and funisitis, the histopathologic landmark of a fetal inflammatory response, predispose to MAS. STUDY DESIGN A prospective cohort study was conducted from 1995 through 2009. Amniotic fluid (AF) samples (n = 1281) were collected at the time of cesarean delivery from women who delivered singleton newborns at term (gestational age ≥38 weeks). Intraamniotic inflammation was diagnosed if the AF concentration of matrix metalloproteinase-8 was >23 ng/mL. Funisitis was diagnosed by histologic examination if inflammation was present in the umbilical cord. RESULTS The prevalence of MSAF was 9.2% (118/1281), and 10.2% (12/118) of neonates exposed to MSAF developed MAS. There were no significant differences in the median gestational age or umbilical cord arterial pH at birth between neonates who developed MAS and those who did not (each P > .1). Mothers whose newborns developed MAS had a higher median of AF matrix metalloproteinase-8 (456.8 vs 157.2 ng/mL, P < .05). Newborns exposed to intraamniotic inflammation had a higher rate of MAS than those who were not exposed to intraamniotic inflammation [13.0% (10/77) vs 0% (0/32), P = .03], as did those exposed to funisitis [31.3% (5/16) vs 7.3% (6/82); relative risk, 4.3; 95% confidence interval, 1.5-12.3]. Among the 89 newborns for whom both AF and placental histology were available, MAS was more common in patients with both intraamniotic inflammation and funisitis than in those without intraamniotic inflammation and funisitis [28.6% (4/14) vs 0% (0/28), P = .009], while the rate of MAS did not show a significant difference between patients with intraamniotic inflammation alone (without funisitis) and those without intraamniotic inflammation and funisitis [10.9% (5/46) vs 0% (0/28)]. CONCLUSION The combination of intraamniotic inflammation with fetal systemic inflammation is an important antecedent of MAS. This concept has implications for the understanding of the mechanisms of disease responsible for MAS and for the development of prognostic models and therapeutic interventions for this disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- JoonHo Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Roberto Romero
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development/National Institutes of Health/US Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI; Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI.
| | - Kyung A Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Na Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Steven J Korzeniewski
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development/National Institutes of Health/US Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Piya Chaemsaithong
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development/National Institutes of Health/US Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Bo Hyun Yoon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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Romero R, Yoon BH, Chaemsaithong P, Cortez J, Park CW, Gonzalez R, Behnke E, Hassan SS, Chaiworapongsa T, Yeo L. Bacteria and endotoxin in meconium-stained amniotic fluid at term: could intra-amniotic infection cause meconium passage? J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2013; 27:775-88. [PMID: 24028637 DOI: 10.3109/14767058.2013.844124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Meconium-stained amniotic fluid (MSAF) is a common occurrence among women in spontaneous labor at term, and has been associated with adverse outcomes in both mother and neonate. MSAF is a risk factor for microbial invasion of the amniotic cavity (MIAC) and preterm birth among women with preterm labor and intact membranes. We now report the frequency of MIAC and the presence of bacterial endotoxin in the amniotic fluid of patients with MSAF at term. MATERIALS AND METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study including women in presumed preterm labor because of uncertain dates who underwent amniocentesis, and were later determined to be at term (n = 108). Patients were allocated into two groups: (1) MSAF (n = 66) and (2) clear amniotic fluid (n = 42). The presence of bacteria was determined by microbiologic techniques, and endotoxin was detected using the Limulus amebocyte lysate (LAL) gel clot assay. Statistical analyses were performed to test for normality and bivariate comparisons. RESULTS Bacteria were more frequently present in patients with MSAF compared to those with clear amniotic fluid [19.6% (13/66) versus 4.7% (2/42); p < 0.05]. The microorganisms were Gram-negative rods (n = 7), Ureaplasma urealyticum (n = 4), Gram-positive rods (n = 2) and Mycoplasma hominis (n = 1). The LAL gel clot assay was positive in 46.9% (31/66) of patients with MSAF, and in 4.7% (2/42) of those with clear amniotic fluid (p < 0.001). After heat treatment, the frequency of a positive LAL gel clot assay remained higher in the MSAF group [18.1% (12/66) versus 2.3% (1/42), p < 0.05]. Median amniotic fluid IL-6 concentration (ng/mL) was higher [1.3 (0.7-1.9) versus 0.6 (0.3-1.2), p = 0.04], and median amniotic fluid glucose concentration (mg/dL) was lower [6 (0-8.9) versus 9 (7.4-12.6), p < 0.001] in the MSAF group, than in those with clear amniotic fluid. CONCLUSION MSAF at term was associated with an increased incidence of MIAC. The index of suspicion for an infection-related process in postpartum women and their neonates should be increased in the presence of MSAF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Romero
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS , Bethesda, MD and Detroit, MI , USA
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9
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Silva-Bravo R, Mayoral-Andrade G, Zenteno E, Hernandez P, Martínez-Cruz R, Mayoral LPC, Aguilar-Ruiz S, Paz-Pacheco A, Zarate-Aspiros R, López-Bravo M, Roldan-Aragon Y, Pérez-Campos E. Color of meconium and interleukin-6. Indian J Pediatr 2012; 79:48-51. [PMID: 21625842 DOI: 10.1007/s12098-011-0447-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2010] [Accepted: 05/02/2011] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To test the hypothesis that the color of meconial fluid is associated with inflammatory biomarkers, by determining C-reactive protein (CRP) and Interleukin-6 (IL-6) in serum from the umbilical cord. METHODS In this prospective study, the authors selected 30 newborns with meconium-stained amniotic fluid (MSAF): 14 with green/brown 656 R color and 16 with brown/cinnamon 654 R color, and 20 newborns which showed clear amniotic fluid without MSAF (non-MSAF); all newborns were from mothers without risk factors for neonatal sepsis. RESULTS IL-6 concentration from umbilical cord blood, [median of 12.9 pg/mL (interquartile range {IQR} 8.7-31.0)] of MSAF-green/brown 656 R increased significantly (p < 0.05) when compared with IL-6 concentration, [median of 9.2 pg/mL (IQR 7.2-12.2)] of newborns with clear amniotic fluid and without meconium. CRP from MSAF-green/brown 656 R was median of 0.5 mg/mL (IQR 0.0-2.7), and median of 1.0 mg/mL (IQR 0.0-5.5) from clear amniotic fluid, without meconium. CONCLUSIONS Significant association was found between MSAF-green/brown 656 R and increase in IL-6, with normal CRP values.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Silva-Bravo
- Hospital General "Dr. Aurelio Valdivieso", Servicios de Salud del Estado de Oaxaca, Oaxaca, Mexico
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10
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Gursoy T, Tekİnalp G, Yİgİt S, Kİrazlİ S, Korkmaz A, Gurgey A. Thrombin activatable fibrinolysis inhibitor activity (TAFIa) levels in neonates with meconium-stained amniotic fluid. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2009; 21:123-8. [DOI: 10.1080/14767050801891135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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11
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Berdeli A, Akisu M, Dagci T, Akisu C, Yalaz M, Kultursay N. Meconium enhances platelet-activating factor and tumor necrosis factor production by rat alveolar macrophages. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 2004; 71:227-32. [PMID: 15301793 DOI: 10.1016/j.plefa.2004.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2004] [Accepted: 03/29/2004] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS) frequently results in inactivation of surfactant, persistent pulmonary hypertension (PPHN) and respiratory failure among newborn infants. Inflammation and inflammatory mediators play an important role in MAS. Since alveolar macrophages are thought to be very important cells in the pathogenesis of various inflammatory diseases, we evaluated whether meconium could stimulate rat alveolar macrophages to generate platelet-activating factor (PAF) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha in vitro. We also examined the response to A23187 (calcium ionophore), 1-0-Hexadecyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (synthetic PAF) and dexamethasone on meconium-induced release of PAF and TNF-alpha. PAF and TNF-alpha concentrations from supernatant fluid were measured after high-performance liquid chromatography purification by specific radioimmunoassay, and TNF-alpha concentrations were determined by using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Our results showed that alveolar macrophages exposed to meconium could enhance PAF and TNF-alpha production in a dose (0.1, 1, 5 and 10%, P<0.01)-dependent way. In the presence of A23187, the capability of meconium to stimulate PAF production was further enhanced in the supernatant fluids. Furthermore, treatment with synthetic PAF significantly increased the generation of TNF-alpha in response to meconium. On the other hand, dexamethasone effectively inhibited both PAF and TNF-alpha production stimulated by 5% meconium (P<0.01, P<0.01; respectively). We suggest that alveolar macrophages and PAF, TNF-alpha play an important role in the pathogenesis of lung injury and severe complications in MAS. Furthermore, the protective effect of glucocorticoids in MAS could be due, at least in part, to a suppression of PAF and TNF-alpha generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afig Berdeli
- Department of Pediatrics, Ege University Medical Faculty, BORNOVA, Izmir 35100, Turkey
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12
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Blackwell SC, Hallak M, Hotra JW, Refuerzo J, Sokol RJ, Sorokin Y. Prolonged in utero meconium exposure impairs spatial learning in the adult rat. Central Prize Award. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2004; 190:1551-5; discussion 1555-6. [PMID: 15284732 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2004.03.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of prolonged in utero meconium exposure on adult learning and memory, as measured by the Morris water maze. STUDY DESIGN Timed pregnant Long-Evans rats were studied. On gestational day 20 (term, 21 days of gestation), laparotomy was performed, and each maternal animal received an injection of clear amniotic fluid or meconium-stained amniotic fluid into each gestational sac. The laparotomy incision was closed, and the animals received postoperative monitoring through delivery. On postnatal days 145 to 148, the offspring underwent Morris water maze testing. The mean (+/-SEM) for the latency time was reported for each day's trial and compared between groups. RESULTS There were significant differences between meconium-stained amniotic fluid group and clear amniotic fluid group in the mean time to platform on day 1 (82.7 +/- 1.8 seconds vs 75.9 +/- 3.0 seconds; P=.04), day 2 (60.5 +/- 3.5 seconds vs 47. 8 +/- 4.6 seconds; P=.03), and day 3 (56.5 +/- 4.5 seconds vs 34.7 +/- 4.4 seconds; P=.001). However, there were no differences on days 4 and 5. There were also no differences between recall and response learning trials that were done after a 12-day retention period. CONCLUSION In the absence of hypoxia or infection, prolonged in utero meconium exposure is associated with a delay of spatial learning in the adult rat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean C Blackwell
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48201, USA.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to investigate the occurrence of in utero defecation as a normal function in the human fetus. STUDY DESIGN The anuses of 240 fetuses were studied sonographically between weeks 15 and 41 of gestation. Fetal defecation was defined as the expulsion of rectal contents through the anus into the amniotic fluid. The diameter and area of the anus were measured sonographically at times of maximum anal aperture. RESULTS One or more defecations were documented in all fetuses. The frequency of defecations was highest between week 28 and 34 of gestation. CONCLUSION This study confirms that defecation in utero is a normal function and supports the view that the evacuation of rectal contents into the amniotic fluid is no departure from normal fetal physiologic behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- C López Ramón y Cajal
- Unit of Prenatal Diagnosis, Service of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Xeral Hospital, Pontevedra, Spain.
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Blackwell SC, Moldenhauer J, Hassan SS, Redman ME, Refuerzo JS, Berry SM, Sorokin Y. Meconium aspiration syndrome in term neonates with normal acid-base status at delivery: is it different? Am J Obstet Gynecol 2001; 184:1422-5; discussion 1425-6. [PMID: 11408862 DOI: 10.1067/mob.2001.115120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Our aim was to compare the clinical characteristics of meconium aspiration syndrome in cases with pH > or =7.20 and in those with pH <7.20. STUDY DESIGN Medical records of diagnostic codes from the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, were used to identify neonates with severe meconium aspiration syndrome who had been delivered at our institution from 1994 through 1998. Severe meconium aspiration syndrome was defined as a mechanical ventilator requirement of >48 hours. Clinical data including neonatal outcomes of cases of meconium aspiration syndrome associated with umbilical pH > or =7.20 at delivery were compared with data on outcomes of cases with pH <7.20. RESULTS During this 4-year study period, 4985 singleton term neonates were delivered through meconium-stained amniotic fluid. Forty-eight cases met all study criteria, and pH values at delivery were as follows: pH > or =7.20, n = 29, and pH <7.20, n = 19. There were no differences between groups in the incidence of clinical chorioamnionitis, in the presence of meconium below the vocal cords, or in birth weight. Neonates with meconium aspiration syndrome and umbilical pH > or =7.20 at delivery developed seizures as often as those with pH <7.20 (20.1% vs 21.1%; P = 1.0). CONCLUSION Normal acid-base status at delivery is present in many cases of severe meconium aspiration syndrome, which suggests that either a preexisting injury or a nonhypoxic mechanism is often involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- S C Blackwell
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan 48201, USA
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Li YH, Yan ZQ, Brauner A, Tullus K. Meconium induces expression of inducible NO synthase and activation of NF-kappaB in rat alveolar macrophages. Pediatr Res 2001; 49:820-5. [PMID: 11385144 DOI: 10.1203/00006450-200106000-00018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Meconium aspiration causes intensive inflammatory reactions in the lungs, and may lead to neonatal respiratory disorder. Infiltrated inflammatory cells, particularly macrophages, play an important role in such an inflammation. A rat alveolar macrophage cell line (ATCC8383) was exposed to meconium alone or in combination with dexamethasone, budesonide, or interferon-gamma. Nitric oxide (NO) accumulation in the supernatant of the cell culture was detected by Griess reaction, and mRNA of inducible NO synthase (iNOS) expression was detected by reverse transcriptase-PCR. Nuclear factor-kappa B was analyzed by electrophoretic mobility shift assay, and iNOS location and nuclear factor-kappa B transactivation were determined by immunostaining. Our results showed that meconium was capable of inducing production of NO and expression of iNOS in alveolar macrophages in a dose- (1-25 mg/mL, p < 0.05) and time- (4-48 h, p < 0.05) dependent manner. This capability of meconium could be further enhanced in the presence of interferon-gamma (100 IU/mL, p < 0.05). Budesonide (10(-4)-10(-10) M) or dexamethasone (10(-4)-10(-6) M) effectively inhibited the meconium-induced NO production (p < 0.05). Using the protein synthesis inhibitor cycloheximide, we demonstrated that meconium directly induced iNOS in macrophages. Furthermore, meconium also triggered nuclear factor-kappa B activation, a mechanism possibly responsible for the iNOS expression. Our findings suggest that meconium is a potent inflammatory stimulus, resulting in iNOS expression, leading to overproduction of NO from the macrophages, which may be of pathogenic importance in meconium aspiration syndrome. In vitro steroids down-regulated the iNOS expression, thus suggesting a potential to down-regulate NO-mediated inflammation in neonates with meconium aspiration syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y H Li
- Neonatal Unit, Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
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