What causes Hirschsprung's disease?

The main cause of Hirschsprung's disease is the developmental defects of some ganglion cells in the rectum or colon, which causes some parts of the intestine to fail to move normally. This disease is a congenital disease and a problem that occurs during fetal development.

Under normal circumstances, ganglion cells in the intestine push food and waste forward by regulating the contraction and relaxation of smooth muscles. However, in congenital megacolon, ganglion cells are missing in specific areas, making it impossible for the intestine in that area to contract and push the contents. This not only leads to abnormal function of the intestine in that area, but also causes accumulation and excessive expansion of the upstream part, causing symptoms such as difficulty in defecation and abdominal distension.

Newborns usually develop symptoms within a few days of birth, such as failure to pass meconium, repeated vomiting, and abdominal distension. If not discovered in time, the child may develop chronic constipation, malnutrition, or even repeated intestinal infections as they grow. Confirmation usually requires imaging tests or biopsies to detect the extent of ganglion cell loss.

Once diagnosed, surgery is usually required to remove the intestinal segment lacking ganglion cells and directly connect the healthy intestine. This type of surgery has a good effect, but proper care is required after surgery, such as preventing infection and adjusting diet. If you suspect that your child has the above symptoms, you should see a doctor as soon as possible for evaluation and treatment by a professional doctor.