Adult Hirschprung's disease diagnosed postoperatively: A case report. (April 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Anadani, Rami; Aladna, Abdallah; Radwan, Sura; Zeino, Zainab; Albakkar, Farah; Aljaber, Ahmad; Mahli, Nihad
• Is Part Of: Annals of medicine and surgery. Volume 76(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-04
• Subjects: Hirschprung's -- Aganglionosis -- Colon diseases -- Colonic surgery -- Constipation; Surgery -- Periodicals; Medicine -- Periodicals; General Surgery -- Periodicals; Education, Medical -- Periodicals; Periodicals; 617
• DOI: 10.1016/j.amsu.2022.103512
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2049-0801

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Hirschprung's Disease (HD) is a congenital disease where the ganglion cells that innervate the colon fail to migrate. Most cases are diagnosed during childhood, however, in rare cases it can go unnoticed until adulthood. Case presentation: We present a case of a 40-year-old-man who had been managing his chronic constipation with an atypical diet, until he was diagnosed with HD following an emergent abdominal surgery due to unresolved constipation. His diagnosis was delayed mainly out of fear of medical procedures. The surgery was later complicated and followed by a second and a final third and definitive surgery, suitable for the diagnosis of HD. Conclusion: HD should be included in the differential diagnosis of constipation even in this age. Also, patient awareness should be increased to ensure better quality of life. Highlights: Hirschprung's disease should be included in the differential diagnosis of constipation in adults. Many patients ignore their symptoms for a long time, out of negligence or fear. A higher threshold of suspicion is advised. Wrong treatments without knowing the diagnosis of HD can have negative results. More should be done regarding public education on the effective management of constipation.