Hirschsprung-Associated Enterocolitis: Recognition and Treatment

In Hirschsprung's disease, the bottom part of the large intestine (colon) lacks half of the nerves needed to work normally.

In Hirschsprung's disease, the affected intestinal segment squeezes continuously while upstream intestine attempts to push contents through, resulting in functional obstruction.

Enterocolitis is a complication of Hirschsprung's disease that can occur before or after surgery.

Enterocolitis presents with bloating, pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and fever.

Enterocolitis is treated with oral antibiotics.

Metronidazole (trade name Flagyl) is the most commonly used antibiotic for enterocolitis, targeting bacteria in the large intestine.

Rectal irrigations are a primary treatment for enterocolitis, involving washing out the distal intestine to remove stool, gas, and bacteria from the intestinal lining.

Parents are taught to perform rectal irrigations at home.

Rectal irrigations reduce bloating and allow the child to resume drinking, eating, and normal activities.