Meconium peritonitis as a cause of non-immune hydrops in neonates is rarely reported. Here we report such a rare occurrence. In our case, a routine antenatal scan at 25 weeks revealed isolated ascites. By 31 weeks of gestation, all features of hydrops were observed in scans. However, antenatal workup for immune and non-immune hydrops was negative. Subsequently, a preterm hydropic female baby was delivered at 32 weeks. She required intubation and ventilator support. An X-ray revealed calcification in the abdomen suggestive of meconium peritonitis. Ultrasound showed gross ascites, a giant cyst compressing the inferior vena cava, and minimal bilateral pleural effusion. Emergency laparotomy revealed meconium pellets and perforation of the ileum. Double-barrel ileostomy was performed, and the edema resolved and activity improved. The baby was discharged after 3 weeks. Ileostomy closure was done at follow-up. The baby is growing well.
Abdomen ; Ascites ; Edema ; Emergencies ; Female ; Follow-Up Studies ; Humans ; Hydrops Fetalis ; Ileostomy ; Ileum ; Infant, Newborn ; Intubation ; Laparotomy ; Meconium ; Peritonitis ; Pleural Effusion ; Pregnancy ; Ultrasonography ; Vena Cava, Inferior ; Ventilators, Mechanical