Assay of nucleated red blood cells in the umbilical cord blood to assess the severity of outcome among the neonates born with meconium stained amniotic fluid

Background and Objectives: Meconium stained Liquor is an alarming perinatal condition of the foetus which is associated with high rates of perinatal mortality. Nucleated red blood cells (NRBCs) are released from the foetal bone marrow in response to increased erythropoietin situations of hypoxia. The objectives of the study were to compare the level of nucleated red blood cells between neonates born with meconium stained amniotic fluid (cases) and clear amniotic fluid (controls) and to find out the association between nucleated red blood cells level and poor outcomes among neonates with meconium stained amniotic fluid. Materials and Methods: The study was case control study conducted in neonatology unit of paediatrics department among 50 neonates with meconium stained amniotic fluid as cases and 50 neonates with clear amniotic fluid as controls for a period of 2 years. Informed consent was obtained from each study participant. The data was collected using a pretested semi structured interview schedule and NRBCs level were estimated using 2 ml umbilical cord blood collected from each study participant. The data collected was entered into excel sheet and analysed using SPSS version 23. Results: The NRBCs among the cases was found to be more than among the controls and the difference was statistically significant. The mean NRBCs level were found to be more among those with poor Cry/Suck/Activity. The mean NRBCs level among those who had received oxygen support was more than those who had not received any. Similarly, among those who expired the mean NRBCs level was more. Conclusion: To conclude increased NRBCs level among the neonates with meconium stained amniotic fluid could indicate poor outcome. .