PaO2/FiO2 Ratio as Predictor of Mortality in Neonates with Meconium Aspiration Syndrome

Objectives Partial arterial pressure of oxygen/fraction of oxygen in inspired air (PaO (2) /FiO (2) ) ratio has been used as a predictor of outcome in some neonatal conditions, but has not been used in meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS). This study was conducted with the objective to study if the PaO (2) /FiO (2) ratio of<200 at 6, 12, and 24 hours of life can predict mortality in neonates with MAS. Study Design Two hundred neonates with MAS were included in the study. PaO (2) /FiO (2) ratio was calculated at 6, 12, and 24 hours of life. Sensitivity, specificity, predictive values, and likelihood ratio at cut-off<200 to predict mortality was calculated. Results PaO (2) /FiO (2) ratio at cut-off of<200 was found to predict mortality in neonates with MAS with 94.1% sensitivity and 96.6% specificity. It was also able to predict development of severe MAS. Conclusion PaO (2) /FiO (2) at<200 can predict all-cause mortality in neonates with MAS. It can be used as vital tool in identifying newborns at high risk, thus helping in focused care.