Anal Atresia(Imperforate Anus; Anorectal Malfunction)Pronounced: AY-nal ah-TRE-zhuh
by
Cynthia M. Johnson, MA DefinitionAnal atresia is a problem with the way the anus forms and the part of the intestine leading to the anus. It can make it hard or impossible for the child to pass stool. Your child may have:
Causes TOPAnal atresia happens when an unborn baby’s intestines develop the wrong way. The reason why isn't clear. Risk Factors TOPAnal atresia is more common in boys. It is also more common in those with other health problems, such as Down syndrome and other birth defects. Symptoms TOPIf your baby has anal atresia, symptoms may include:
Milder anal atresia may not be found until later in life. It may show as a lack of bowel control by age three. Diagnosis TOPYou will be asked about your child's symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. Images may be taken. This can be done with: Treatment TOPMost of the time, anal atresia can be fixed. Talk with your child's doctor about the best plan for your child. Your child may need: SurgerySurgery may be done to fix the anal atresia. The type will depend on the defects that your child has. Your child may have:
Prevention TOPAnal atresia can’t be prevented. RESOURCES:Centers for Disease Control and Prevention http://www.cdc.gov Healthy Children—American Academy of Pediatrics http://www.healthychildren.org CANADIAN RESOURCES:About Kids Health—The Hospital for Sick Children http://www.aboutkidshealth.ca Health Canada https://www.canada.ca References:
Anorectal malformations. EBSCO DynaMed Plus website. Available at:
http://www.dynamed...
. Updated February 18, 2017. Accessed July 2, 2018.
Imperforate anus. Cincinnati Children's website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Updated March 2018. Accessed July 2, 2018. Gangopadhyay A, Pandey V. Anorectal malformations. J Indian Assoc Pediatr Surg. 2015 Jan-Mar;20(1):10-15. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Accessed July 2, 2018. Last reviewed May 2018 by Kari Kassir, MD Last Updated: 7/2/2018 |
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