Gastroschisis

Gastroschisis
CDC illustration of a baby with gastroschisis
Pronunciation
SpecialtyGeneral surgery, medical genetics
SymptomsIntestines extend outside of the body through a hole next to the belly button[1]
ComplicationsFeeding problems, prematurity, intrauterine growth restriction[2][3]
Usual onsetDuring early development[2]
CausesUnknown[2]
Risk factorsMother who smokes, drinks alcohol, or is younger than 20[3][2]
Diagnostic methodUltrasound during pregnancy, based on symptom at birth[2]
Differential diagnosisOmphalocele, prune belly syndrome[3][4]
TreatmentEarly surgery[2]
Frequency4 per 10,000 births[3]

Gastroschisis is a birth defect in which the baby's intestines extend outside of the abdomen through a hole next to the belly button.[1] The size of the hole is variable, and other organs including the stomach and liver may also occur outside the baby's body.[2] Complications may include feeding problems, prematurity, intestinal atresia, and intrauterine growth restriction.[2][3]

The cause is typically unknown.[3][2] Rates are higher in babies born to mothers who smoke, drink alcohol, or are younger than 20 years old.[3][2] Ultrasounds during pregnancy may make the diagnosis.[2] Otherwise diagnosis occurs at birth.[2] It differs from omphalocele in that there is no covering membrane over the intestines.[3]

Treatment involves surgery.[2] This typically occurs shortly after birth.[2] In those with large defects the exposed organs may be covered with a special material and slowly moved back into the abdomen.[2] The condition affects about 4 per 10,000 newborns.[3] Rates of the condition appear to be increasing.[2]

  1. ^ a b "Gastroschisis". Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD). 2017. Archived from the original on 5 July 2017. Retrieved 14 July 2017.
  2. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p "Facts about Gastroschisis". National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities Home | NCBDDD | CDC. 27 June 2017. Archived from the original on 18 July 2017. Retrieved 14 July 2017.
  3. ^ a b c d e f g h i Reference, Genetics Home (August 2016). "Abdominal wall defect". Genetics Home Reference. Archived from the original on 10 July 2017. Retrieved 14 July 2017.
  4. ^ "Gastroschisis". NORD (National Organization for Rare Disorders). 2007. Archived from the original on 21 February 2017. Retrieved 14 July 2017.