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Meconium Aspiration Syndrome (MAS) is a serious neonatal respiratory condition that occurs when a newborn inhales meconium-stained amniotic fluid into the lungs before, during, or immediately after birth. Meconium, the baby’s first intestinal discharge, can mix with amniotic fluid when the fetus experiences stress, particularly due to hypoxia. Once aspirated, it can obstruct airways, cause chemical irritation, and impair normal lung function.

Clinically, infants with MAS may present with rapid breathing, grunting, nasal flaring, chest retractions, and cyanosis. The severity can range from mild respiratory distress to life-threatening complications such as persistent pulmonary hypertension. Diagnosis is based on clinical signs, history of meconium-stained fluid, and chest X-ray findings showing patchy infiltrates and hyperinflation.

Management focuses on supportive respiratory care, including oxygen therapy, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), or mechanical ventilation in severe cases. In some instances, surfactant therapy or antibiotics may be required. Prevention involves careful monitoring of high-risk pregnancies and timely obstetric intervention.

Early recognition and prompt treatment significantly improve outcomes, though severe cases may still lead to complications or prolonged hospitalization.