Hirschsprung's disease

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Hirschsprung’s disease involves missing nerve cells in the muscles of part or all of the large intestine (colon). Present at birth, it causes difficulty passing stool.

Overview

The main symptom is a newborn’s failure to have a bowel movement within 48 hours after birth. Other symptoms include a swollen belly and vomiting.

Symptoms

Surgery is needed to bypass the affected part of the colon or remove it entirely.

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