meconium ileus
Intestinal obstruction in newborns caused by abnormally thick, sticky meconium blocking the small intestine.
Full Definition
Meconium ileus is a condition where the first stool (meconium) becomes impacted in the small intestine, causing bowel obstruction in newborns. This condition is most commonly associated with cystic fibrosis, occurring in about 15-20% of infants with the disease. The thick, viscous meconium cannot pass through the intestines normally, requiring immediate medical intervention. Diagnosis is often made through prenatal ultrasound showing dilated bowel loops, and treatment typically involves surgical removal of the obstructing meconium.
Usage
Usage note: Often confused with meconium aspiration syndrome, but meconium ileus is an intestinal obstruction while meconium aspiration affects the lungs.
In Context
- "The prenatal ultrasound revealed dilated bowel loops suggestive of meconium ileus." — Radiology report
- "Given the family history of cystic fibrosis, meconium ileus was considered in the differential diagnosis." — Clinical assessment