Intramural Calcification and Stenosis of the Small Intestine of the Newborn

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Abstract
Intra-abdominal calcification of the peritoneal surfaces due to foetal peritonitis, most frequently associated with meconium ileus, is a well-recognised occurrence. However, intra-luminal calcification in the newborn is rare and only six cases have so far been reported. Camp and Roberts (1949) published a description of a baby with ileal stenosis and intraluminal calcification. Kasmersky and Howard (1952) reported a newborn baby with multiple atresia of the small intestine and intraluminal calcification between the atretic segments. Khilnani, Wolf and Arnheim (1955) drew attention to a case of “enterolithiasis” in a newborn baby with several other congenital anomalies. Rickham (1957) reported a case of intraluminal calcification of meconium causing obstruction; the cause of the calcification was unknown. Hillcoat (1962) reviewed the four previous cases and described two more instances of intraluminal intestinal calcification in newborn babies, both with imperforate anus. The present case differs from those previously reported in that the calcification was situated in the wall of the small intestine and it was seen in antenatal radiographs of the maternal abdomen at least three weeks before birth. On 13.3.59 Mrs. S. attended the X-ray department for assessment of foetal lie. The radiograph showed a single foetus in breech presentation with the back to the maternal left. No other abnormality was seen (Fig. 1). On 27.4.59 a further X-ray examination of the abdomen showed the foetus now in cephalic presentation, with the back still to the maternal left.

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