Meconium pseudocyst presenting as massive ascites in a new-born

Abstract

Meconium pseudocyst (MPC) is a rare but well-known surgical condition due to prenatal bowel perforation. A case of MPC secondary to prenatal bowel perforation is presented. Massive ascites requiring peritoneal drainage and disappearance of prenatal intraperitoneal calcifications have not been previously reported in MPC. MPC may present at birth with large ascites requiring peritoneal drainage to establish breathing and ventilation. Absence of prenatal intra-abdominal calcifications does not rule out MPC. Keywords: Meconium pseudocyst, Meconium peritonitis, Antenatal perforation, Intra-abdominal calcifications, Ascites, Peritoneal drainage