Meconium ileus is frequently associated with which condition?

Meconium ileus is frequently associated with which condition?

• A. Cystic fibrosis
• B. Tracheoesophageal fistula
• C. Hydronephrosis
• D. Esophageal atresia

Answer: (A)

Meconium ileus is caused by thick, sticky meconium obstructing the distal ileum in newborns. It is most strongly linked to cystic fibrosis because CFTR gene mutations cause dehydration of intestinal secretions, producing viscous mucus that plugs the ileum. This obstruction is a common early sign in babies with CF, so when meconium ileus is present, CF is a leading consideration and often investigated. The other conditions listed are not typically associated with this neonatal bowel obstruction, as they involve different organ systems (airway, urinary tract, or esophagus) and do not explain the thick, inspissated meconium seen in the ileum.

Meconium ileus is caused by thick, sticky meconium obstructing the distal ileum in newborns. It is most strongly linked to cystic fibrosis because CFTR gene mutations cause dehydration of intestinal secretions, producing viscous mucus that plugs the ileum. This obstruction is a common early sign in babies with CF, so when meconium ileus is present, CF is a leading consideration and often investigated.

The other conditions listed are not typically associated with this neonatal bowel obstruction, as they involve different organ systems (airway, urinary tract, or esophagus) and do not explain the thick, inspissated meconium seen in the ileum.