Intrauterine Meconium Peritonitis: An Unusual Case of Foetal Ascites

Abstract

Meconium peritonitis is defined as aseptic chemical inflammation caused by an intrauterine bowel perforation. Its incidence is 1 in 35,000 live births. We present a case of meconium peritonitis presented at second day of postnatal life with isolated gross fetal ascites. Exploratory laprotomy was performed, suggestive of gross ascites with fecal contamination and perforation at terminal ileum for which ileal resection with double barrel ileostomy had been done. Postoperatively patient condition had improved and discharged. We would like to highlight this rare presentation of meconium peritonitis following intrauterine bowel perforation in fetus.