![]() Less common are abnormalities of the neurological and musculoskeletal systems. These include imperforate anus, a condition in which the anal opening fails to develop properly. Abnormalities of the gastrointestinal system and urogenital tract are the next most common birth defects that occur along with EA/TEF. Such abnormalities can include ventricular septal defects or more complex abnormalities such as Tetralogy of Fallot. Heart (cardiac) abnormalities are the most frequent additional birth defect associated with EA/TEF. Tracheomalacia can contribute to breathing difficulties and may precipitate respiratory arrest (near death episodes).Īpproximately 50 percent of infants with an EA/TEF have another birth defect. This is often mild, but can be severe, leading to collapse of the air passage. Some of these infants have abnormal softening and weakening of the cartilage of the trachea (tracheomalacia) so that the walls of the trachea are floppy instead of rigid. Cyanosis is characterized by shortness of breath, coughing, flaring of the nostrils when breathing and bluish discoloration of the skin. They can also experience repeated episodes of low levels of oxygen in the blood (hypoxia/cyanosis). Consequently, these infants can develop significant respiratory distress and/or pneumonia.Īffected infants may experience episodes of coughing, gagging or choking. If a TEF is present, affected infants are also at risk of secretions, such as gastric juices and saliva/mucus, being inhaled into the lungs (aspiration). These secretions may appear as frothy white bubbles in an infant’s mouth and recur even after being suctioned out. After birth, infants will exhibit excessive amounts of drool, mucus and other oral secretions because they are unable to swallow. Infants with EA/TEF are unable to swallow normally and can have trouble breathing (respiratory distress). EA/TEF can occur as isolated findings (nonsyndromic), associated with other birth defects (non-isolated), or as part of a larger syndrome. The exact underlying causes of EA/TEF are not fully understood. EA/TEF is a life-threatening condition, however, the majority of affected infants will recover fully if the defect is detected early and treated appropriately. The trachea is the tube that runs from the voice box in the throat to the lungs (bronchi), and carries air to and from the lungs. EA often occurs in association with a tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF), which is an abnormal passage or connection (fistula) between the esophagus (usually the lower) and the trachea (windpipe). Consequently, the normal passage between the mouth and stomach does not exist. One or both segments (usually the upper) end in a blind pouch. In infants with EA, the esophagus is usually separated into two parts, an upper and lower segment. 5 Myths About Orphan Drugs and the Orphan Drug ActĮsophageal atresia (EA) is a rare birth defect in which the esophagus (the tube that connects the throat with the stomach) does not develop normally.Information on Clinical Trials and Research Studies. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
Details
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |