True/False MCQ · Perinatal Asphyxia and HIE

Concerning meconium aspiration syndrome and congenital pneumonia, the following statements are correct:

Decide whether each statement is true or false.

AIn utero hypoxia can relax the anal sphincter, leading to meconium passage
BAt delivery, suction of a meconium-stained baby is reserved for those not responding to resuscitation
CProlonged rupture of membranes and maternal pyrexia are risk factors for congenital pneumonia
DCongenital pneumonia is treated with antifungal agents as first-line
EGroup B streptococcus is a common cause of congenital pneumonia

Show answers and explanation

A. True
B. True
C. True
D. False: Congenital pneumonia is treated with antibiotics (penicillin and gentamicin), not antifungal agents.
E. True

In utero hypoxia relaxes the anal sphincter (meconium passage); continued hypoxia -> gasping -> aspiration.
At delivery, no routine suction; suction only if not responding to resuscitation.

Risk factors: prolonged ROM (>18 h), maternal pyrexia, chorioamnionitis.
Commonly group B streptococcus; treated with IV antibiotics (penicillin and gentamicin), not antifungals.

Hypoxia relaxes the anal sphincter -> meconium passage.

Suction is reserved for non-responders to resuscitation.

Prolonged ROM and maternal pyrexia are risk factors.

Congenital pneumonia is treated with antibiotics, not antifungals.

GBS is a common cause.

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