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Delayed presentation of anorectal malformations: the possible associated morbidity and mortality
1Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt. almoutazeltayeb@hotmail.com
Insights
Delayed presentation of anorectal malformations (ARMs) is a significant issue in pediatric surgery. Early detection and screening of neonates are crucial to prevent associated morbidity and mortality from ARMs.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Congenital Anomalies
- Neonatal Care
Background:
- Anorectal malformations (ARMs) are common congenital anomalies with an incidence of approximately 1 in 5,000 live births.
- While most ARMs present neonatally, a notable number are diagnosed later in infancy or childhood, potentially complicating management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the frequency of delayed presentation of ARMs.
- To identify the causes contributing to delayed diagnosis and treatment.
- To evaluate the impact of delayed presentation on patient morbidity and mortality.
Main Methods:
- A 3-year retrospective study of 104 ARM cases at Assiut University Children's Hospital.
- Delayed presentation defined as presentation after 48 hours of birth or after 3 months for low ARM in females.
- Analysis of patient demographics, ARM type, causes of delay, and associated complications.
Main Results:
- 20 out of 104 cases (19.2%) presented late, with ages ranging from 4 days to 14 years.
- Common causes included delayed detection, incorrect advice, inadequate treatment, and social factors.
- Associated morbidities included chronic constipation and mega rectum; two male infants died due to delayed presentation.
Conclusions:
- Delayed presentation of ARMs is a significant clinical problem.
- Thorough neonatal examination and screening are essential to identify ARMs early.
- Timely diagnosis and intervention are critical to mitigate severe outcomes associated with delayed ARM presentation.
Aim:
Anorectal malformations (ARMs) are one of the most common congenital anomalies dealt by pediatric surgeons with reported incidence of approximately 1 in 5,000 live births. The majority of patients usually presents during the neonatal period. However a significant number of patients report later during infancy or even late childhood. Such delayed presentation may affect the surgical management and contribute to functional and psychological problems for both babies and their parents. The aim of this study is to highlight the frequency of this problem, cause of delayed presentation, and how this delayed presentation of ARM contributes to morbidity and mortality.
Patients And Methods:
During the 3-year study period, 104 cases with ARM (74 males and 30 females) were presented to pediatric surgery unit in Assiut university children's hospital. Delayed presentation means that the child came after the first 48 h or after 3 months of age in case of low ARM in females.
Results:
Out of 104 cases, 20 fulfil the criteria of delayed presentation (11 females and 9 males). Their age at presentation ranged from 4 days to 14 years. Fourteen classified as low ARM (6 male and 8 female), whereas six classified as high ARM (3 male and 3 female). The causes of delayed presentation were delayed detection, wrong advice to the parents, inadequate treatment offered, and social causes. The associated morbidities encountered were chronic constipation, mega rectum, and unnecessary colostomy. Two mortalities were encountered; both were males presented on days 4 and 14 after birth.
Conclusions:
Delayed ARMs is not uncommon. Every neonate should be carefully examined and screened for such anomaly to avoid the possible morbidity and mortality which are directly related to this delayed presentation.
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