Delayed diagnosis of Hirschsprung's disease associated with colonic atresia and multiple anomalies: Report of a case and review of the literature

Abstract

Abstract The co-occurrence of colonic atresia and Hirschsprung's disease is extremely rare and presents a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. Although colonic atresia is usually recognized shortly after birth, the diagnosis of co-existent Hirschsprung's disease is usually made following anastomotic failure or intestinal obstruction subsequent to restoration of intestinal continuity. This report describes a female infant born with colonic atresia and Hirschsprung's disease associated with multiple anomalies. Previously reported cases are also reviewed, with an emphasis on the importance of coexistent Hirschsprung's disease in any infant born with colonic atresia.