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Segmental dilation of the colon: a rare cause of chronic constipation
Journal of Pediatric Surgery
|October 1, 1984
Insights
Segmental dilation of the colon, a rare condition in young patients with chronic constipation, mimics Hirschsprung's disease. Surgical resection of the dilated segment offers a cure for this condition.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Colorectal Surgery
Background:
- Segmental dilation of the colon is an uncommon congenital anomaly.
- It is a significant cause of chronic constipation in pediatric patients.
Observation:
- Clinical presentation and radiographic findings are often indistinguishable from Hirschsprung's disease.
- Rectal biopsy is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
Findings:
- Segmental dilation of the colon can be definitively diagnosed through rectal biopsy.
- Surgical resection of the affected colonic segment is curative.
Implications:
- Early consideration of segmental dilation of the colon in pediatric chronic constipation is vital.
- Accurate diagnosis through rectal biopsy differentiates it from Hirschsprung's disease.
- Surgical intervention provides a successful treatment outcome.
Abstract:
Segmental dilation of the colon is a rare entity. It should be considered in any young patient with chronic constipation. The clinical picture and radiographic examination are indistinguishable from Hirschsprung's disease and the rectal biopsy is of paramount importance. This disease can be cured by resection of the dilated segment.