Summary about Disease
Oesophageal atresia (OA) is a rare birth defect where the oesophagus (the tube connecting the mouth to the stomach) doesn't develop properly. It usually ends in a pouch, preventing food from reaching the stomach. It often occurs with tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF), an abnormal connection between the oesophagus and the trachea (windpipe). This can allow stomach contents to enter the lungs.
Symptoms
Symptoms are usually apparent soon after birth and include:
Excessive drooling or saliva
Choking, coughing, and cyanosis (bluish skin due to lack of oxygen) when feeding
Difficulty breathing
Inability to swallow
Regurgitation of feedings
Aspiration pneumonia (lung infection caused by inhaling fluids)
Causes
The exact cause of oesophageal atresia is not fully understood. It is thought to result from a problem during the early stages of pregnancy when the oesophagus is forming (between the 4th and 8th weeks of gestation). Genetic factors may play a role, but in most cases, it occurs randomly. Certain prenatal conditions and genetic syndromes have been linked to a higher risk.
Medicine Used
Medications are typically not used to treat the OA/TEF directly, but can be used to address symptoms and complications. Antibiotics are given to treat any pneumonia or infection. Acid-reducing medications may be used to manage reflux after surgical repair. Pain medications may be administered post-operatively.
Is Communicable
No, oesophageal atresia is not communicable. It is a congenital condition, meaning it is present at birth and is not caused by an infection or transmissible agent.
Precautions
Since OA is a congenital condition, there are no specific precautions that can be taken to prevent it. Prenatal care can help identify risk factors, but the condition is typically unpredictable. Post-operatively, precautions are focused on preventing complications such as strictures, reflux and aspiration. These can include feeding modifications, positioning, and medication.
How long does an outbreak last?
Oesophageal atresia is not an outbreak; it is a birth defect present from birth. Therefore, the concept of "outbreak" duration is not applicable. The time of treatment and recovery depend on the complexity of the case and the specific surgical approach.
How is it diagnosed?
Oesophageal atresia is usually diagnosed shortly after birth, based on symptoms. Diagnostic methods include:
Inability to pass a catheter into the stomach: A soft tube cannot be passed down the oesophagus into the stomach.
X-ray: An X-ray of the chest and abdomen can show the blocked oesophagus and, if present, the tracheoesophageal fistula. A contrast study might be used to visualize the oesophagus.
Timeline of Symptoms
At birth: Excessive drooling, choking, coughing, cyanosis.
Within hours of attempted feeding: Regurgitation, respiratory distress.
If TEF present: Aspiration pneumonia may develop quickly.
Important Considerations
Early diagnosis and surgical intervention are crucial for survival and improved outcomes.
Long-term follow-up is necessary to monitor for complications like oesophageal strictures (narrowing), gastroesophageal reflux, and swallowing difficulties.
Infants may require specialized feeding techniques and nutritional support.
Parents may need emotional support and education about the condition and its management.
Genetic counseling may be considered, although OA is not typically inherited.