Hirschsprung's disease

Disease class: Digestive system abnormalities

Disease class: Megacolon 

Also known as

Aganglionic megacolon.

This is a rare congenital disorder characterised by great hypertrophy and dilatation of the colon. The rectum and lower colon have failed to develop a normal nerve network, thus disturbing normal contraction and expansion of these structures.

 

Symptoms

• Severe, chronic constipation, usually from birth. 

 

Management

Surgical removal (resection) of the abnormal section of the colon, followed by reanastomosis.