**Core Concept**
Fetal lung maturity is crucial for a safe vaginal delivery. The assessment of fetal lung maturity is essential to avoid respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in newborns. The primary goal is to identify a drug that can predict or enhance lung maturity.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is based on the principle that certain substances can be used to assess fetal lung maturity by evaluating the levels of phospholipids, specifically lecithin and sphingomyelin, in amniotic fluid. The test measures the ratio of lecithin to sphingomyelin (L/S ratio), which correlates with fetal lung maturity. The drug used for this purpose is a surfactant, which reduces surface tension in the lungs and facilitates gas exchange.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** This option is incorrect as it does not pertain to assessing fetal lung maturity.
* **Option B:** This option is incorrect as it is not a drug used for assessing fetal lung maturity.
* **Option C:** This option is incorrect as it is not directly related to fetal lung maturity assessment.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A high L/S ratio (>2.0) is often associated with a favorable outcome, whereas a low ratio (<1.5) may indicate the need for a cesarean delivery or further evaluation.
**Correct Answer:** D. Lamellar body count (LBC) is another method to assess fetal lung maturity, but the answer is not listed.
Free Medical MCQs Β· NEET PG Β· USMLE Β· AIIMS
Access thousands of free MCQs, ebooks and daily exams.
By signing in you agree to our Privacy Policy.