[Histochemical diagnosis in pediatric rectal suction biopsies (author's transl)]

Between March 1972 and Dec. 1974 532 rectal suction biopsies were obtained from 238 children and histochemical processed. Slight haemorrhage was observed in three. Indications were :1) Group A, 185 suspected aganglionism (AChE. and DPNH) activities were studied). 2) Group B, 7 Neurolipidoses (Red-oil-o) and 3) Group C, Post-operative control in 10 aganglionic patients (AChE, DPNH). Aganglionism was confirmed in 60 cases (25.2%) of Group A [AChE (+), DPNH (-)] although there were five false negatives (8.3%). Lipidosis was confirmed in one case of Group B. Four patients in Group C were AChE and DPNH (+). Results are discussed, and this technique recommended taking in mind its minimal morbidity, simplicity and good results.