A STUDY OF NUCLEATED RED BLOOD CELLS IN CORD BLOOD OF NEONATES BORN WITH MECONIUMSTAINED AMNIOTIC FLUID WITH RESPIRATORY SYMPTOMS AND IN THOSE BORN WITH CLEAR AMNIOTIC FLUID

Introduction: Meconium, a fetal secretion, can cause life-threatening respiratory disease in newborns, requiring early identification and intervention to improve outcomes and avoid costly treatment. Aims: The study compares NRBC/100WBC levels in neonates with meconium-stained amniotic fluid and clear amniotic fluid to assess respiratory symptoms severity. Methodology: The study involved twelve newborns at Krishna Hospital, Karad, with respiratory symptoms, clear amniotic fluids, or no symptoms. The study included 36 newborns, analyzed for hemoglobin percentage and white blood cell count, and excluded mothers with pre-pregnancy or labor-related conditions. Results: The study compared newborns' gestational age, birth weight, haemoglobin levels, WBC count, NRBC count/100 WBC, ESR, and respiratory symptoms in three groups, finding no significant differences. Discussion: Meconium stained amniotic fluid (MASAF) is a common condition in pregnancies, causing cardiovascular and inflammatory responses in newborns, particularly in developing countries with inadequate antenatal care. Conclusion: The study reveals that newborns with MSAF and respiratory symptoms have higher NRBC counts, suggesting they can be used to evaluate hypoxia and predict meconium aspiration.