2008, Number 3
Hirschsprung’s disease. Myths and realities 120 years after its original description
Torre-Mondragón L
Full text
Language: Spanish
References: 0
Page: 139-146
PDF size: 654.11 Kb.
ABSTRACT
Professor Hirschsprung’s work on megacolon was published 120 years ago. Since that time, mostly in the last two decades, there has been abundant information on Hirschsprung’s disease concerning its genetics, physiopathology, diagnosis and treatment. Much of this knowledge is true, but much has turned out to be a myth. At present, some consequences of this fast, vast and changing information on Hirschsprung’s disease are the heterogeneous diagnostic approach and treatment all over the world; some misunderstood concepts have resulted in controversies wherein we all believe to possess the truth. This paper does not pretend to offer more information, but rather to clarify some concepts in order to benefit many children afflicted with this congenital condition.