Understanding Hirschsprung Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Introduction
Hirschsprung Disease (HD) is a fairly rare condition that affects the large intestine (colon) of infants and children. This disease results from a missing nerve cell formation in the bowel, particularly in the lower digestive tract. It affects the ability of the colon to move waste out of the body, causing chronic constipation and other severe digestive problems. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the causes, symptoms, and available treatment options for Hirschsprung Disease.
Causes of Hirschsprung Disease
Hirschsprung Disease affects 1 in 5,000 live births and is mostly common in males than females. Although the exact cause of HD is not yet known, it’s believed to be a result of genetic mutations that cause the bowel nerves to not develop correctly. In rare cases, HD may be a part of an underlying genetic syndrome or inherited from family members.
Symptoms of Hirschsprung Disease
Symptoms of Hirschsprung Disease vary from mild to severe and are usually noticeable in newborn babies but can also show up later in life. Some of the common symptoms of HD include chronic constipation, which can lead to intestinal blockages, swollen belly, vomiting, gas, and diarrhea. In severe cases, a condition known as Hirschsprung’s enterocolitis may develop, which causes inflammation and infection of the bowel.
Diagnosing Hirschsprung Disease
A doctor can diagnose Hirschsprung Disease by conducting various tests such as an abdominal X-ray, rectal biopsy, and barium enema. During the rectal biopsy, a small piece of tissue is removed from the rectum and sent to a laboratory for testing. Subsequently, the results determine the existence of nerve cells in the bowel wall.
Treatment Options for Hirschsprung Disease
Surgery is the only curative treatment available for Hirschsprung Disease, aiming to remove the part of the bowel that lacks nerve cells (aganglionic part), thereby allowing the bowel to function correctly. The surgical procedure, also known as a pull-through operation, involves removing the affected section of the colon and attaching the normal colon to the rectum. This procedure may be done in a single procedure or multiple stages, depending on the child’s age, overall health, and the severity of the condition. Rarely, complications such as abnormal narrowings (strictures) or bowel obstructions may occur later in life, necessitating additional procedures.
Conclusion
Hirschsprung Disease is a challenging condition that impacts infants and children, resulting from a lack of nerve cells in the bowel wall that prevents normal bowel movements. Its symptoms can range from mild to severe, including chronic constipation, swollen belly, and vomiting. While the exact cause of HSD remains unclear, genetic mutations are often to blame. The only curative treatment available for HD is surgery, which involves removing the affected part of the bowel. It’s essential to diagnose HD early to prevent further complications.
