pediatrics
Hirschsprung Disease
Key Points
Congenital denervation affects the distal colon and less often larger regions of the colon and sometimes even the small bowel. Infants typically present with findings of distal bowel obstruction, such as obstipation, abdominal distention, and vomiting. Barium enema findings (done without prior preparation) and rectal manometry are highly suggestive; diagnosis is confirmed by rectal biopsy. The affected segment is resected surgically. 