MECONIUM Meaning and
Definition
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Meconium is a noun defined as a thick, sticky, and greenish-black substance that is the first stool of a newborn baby. It is usually discharged within the first few days after birth. Meconium is composed of materials ingested by the baby during its time inside the womb, such as epithelial cells, amniotic fluid, mucus, and other substances.
The appearance and consistency of meconium can vary, but it is typically described as having a sticky and tar-like texture. It is odorless, as the baby's digestive system has not yet started producing the characteristic smell associated with feces. The color of meconium is attributed to the presence of biliverdin, a pigment that is derived from the breakdown of red blood cells.
The passage of meconium is an essential milestone in a newborn's health assessment. It serves as an indicator that the baby's digestive system is functioning correctly. In certain cases, the presence of meconium before birth or during labor can be indicative of fetal distress. This situation, known as meconium aspiration, can occur if the baby has breathed in or swallowed the meconium-stained amniotic fluid, potentially leading to respiratory complications.
Overall, meconium is a valuable substance for evaluating a newborn's well-being and is an essential part of the initial stages of a baby's digestion.
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1. Poppy-juice, opium. 2. The first intestinal discharges of the newborn infant, greenish in color and consisting of epithelial cells, mucus, and bile.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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The thickened juice of the poppy, called opium; the first faeces of infants.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for MECONIUM
Etymology of MECONIUM
The word "meconium" derives from the Greek word "mēkōnion", which means "poppy juice" or "opium". This term was used to describe the thick, sticky, dark greenish-black substance that is the first stool passed by a newborn. The name was derived from the resemblance of this substance to opium or poppy juice.
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