[Late diagnosis bilateral congenital diaphragmatic hernia: a case report]

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Congenital Malformations

Background:

• Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a rare birth defect affecting diaphragm development.
• While typically unilateral and left-sided, bilateral CDH (B-CDH) is a rarer variant with higher mortality.
• Right-sided and bilateral defects are associated with increased mortality risks.

Observation:

• A patient was initially diagnosed and treated for a unilateral right-sided CDH.
• During a subsequent laparoscopic Ladd procedure at 8 months of age, a previously undetected left-sided CDH was discovered.

Findings:

• The case presented as a bilateral congenital diaphragmatic hernia (B-CDH).
• The initial diagnosis of unilateral right CDH was incomplete, masking the presence of a left-sided defect.

Implications:

• This case underscores the diagnostic challenges associated with B-CDH.
• It emphasizes the need for thorough evaluation and consideration of bilateral defects in CDH cases, even after initial treatment.
• Accurate diagnosis of B-CDH is critical for appropriate management and potentially improving patient outcomes.