Talk:BGDB Gastrointestinal - Activity 4

2. Common Abnormalities

What is the most common gastrointestinal abnormality of the newborn?

Gastrointestinal malformations, associated congenital abnormalities, and intrauterine growth. Tárnok A & Méhes K. (2002). Gastrointestinal malformations, associated congenital abnormalities, and intrauterine growth. J. Pediatr. Gastroenterol. Nutr. , 34, 406-9. PMID: 11930098

Tárnok A1, Méhes K.

Abstract BACKGROUND: In contrast with other malformations, congenital anomalies of the gastrointestinal tract have been scarcely investigated. METHODS: The prevalence of gastrointestinal malformations with special reference to associated disorders and intrauterine growth was retrospectively analyzed in the newborn infants admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of the Department of Pediatrics, University of Pécs, Hungary, in the 14-year period between 1987 and 2000. RESULTS: Of 4,241 neonates with gastrointestinal malformations, 241 (5.68%) had a total of 304 malformations (excluding Hirschsprung disease). In 133 patients, the gastrointestinal anomalies were observed as one of multiple malformations; a specific syndrome or association was diagnosed in 36 cases. Skeletal disorders were the most frequently associated anomalies. Intrauterine growth retardation was found in a large number of patients with both isolated and multiple gastrointestinal malformations (38.9% and 30.8%, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Gastrointestinal malformations often are complicated by skeletal anomalies and intrauterine growth retardation. The association among these disorders requires further investigation. However, from a practical point of view, this association should be considered in treating affected patients.

Gastrointestinal disorders can affect neonates and infants:

Gastroesophageal reflux

Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis

Intussusception

Meconium ileus

Meconium plug syndrome

Necrotizing enterocolitis

Neonatal cholestasis