Hirschsprung disease is congenital disease of the intestine in newborns. In Hirschsprung disease, certain nerve cells in the large intestine (colon) are lacking, and the body is unable to expel stool from the intestine.
Signs and symptoms associated with Hirschsprung disease include a newborn who is unable to pass stool (no bowel movement within 48 hours after birth), failure to thrive, swollen abdomen, abdominal pain, and vomiting.
Cause of Hirschsprung disease
Physicians do not understand the cause of the lack of development of the nerve cells in the colon in Hirschsprung disease. Some people inherit the disease, and genetic mutations have also been described in others with the condition. However, in about 50% of people with Hirschsprung disease, the cause is not known.
Other hirschsprung disease symptoms and signs
- Abdominal Pain
- Failure to Thrive
- Inability to Pass Stool
- Swollen Abdomen
- Vomiting
Main Article on Hirschsprung Disease Symptoms and Signs
Pictures, Images, Illustrations & Quizzes
-
Abdominal Pain: Common Causes of Stomach Pain in Children
Abdominal pain in children can be more than just a tummy ache. What are the common causes of abdominal pain in children? Learn...
-
Newborn Quiz: Baby Care Facts
Take the Babies Quiz to learn what milestones and developments you can expect from your baby’s first year.
-
Picture of Abdomen
The abdomen (commonly called the belly) is the body space between the thorax (chest) and pelvis. See a picture of the Abdomen and...
-
Picture of Intestines
The intestines are a long, continuous tube running from the stomach to the anus. See a picture of the Intestines and learn more...
From 
Parenting & Children's Health Resources
Health Solutions From Our Sponsors
Subscribe to MedicineNet's Children's Health & Parenting Newsletter
By clicking "Submit," I agree to the MedicineNet Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy. I also agree to receive emails from MedicineNet and I understand that I may opt out of MedicineNet subscriptions at any time.