Final answer:
e. Aganglionic megacolon The two-week-old male infant, presenting with a poor appetite, distended abdomen, and infrequent bowel movements and exhibiting a dilated distal colon without ganglion cells on biopsy, is likely suffering from aganglionic megacolon (Hirschsprung's disease).
Step-by-step explanation:
Diagnosis of a Newborn with Digestive IssuesThe case presented describes an infant with a poor appetite, distended abdomen, and infrequent bowel movements. An abdominal radiograph indicating a dilated distal colon coupled with a rectal suction biopsy that confirms the absence of ganglion cells in the intestinal wall leads to the diagnosis of aganglionic megacolon, also known as Hirschsprung's disease. This congenital disorder is characterized by a lack of ganglion cells in the distal colon, which causes a blockage of the intestine, preventing normal bowel movements and leading to symptoms like a distended abdomen.The other conditions listed are less likely to be the correct diagnosis based on the information provided. For example, ulcerative colitis typically presents later in life, rectal atresia/stenosis would not be associated with a dilated distal colon, omphalocele primarily involves abdominal wall defects present at birth, and meningocele involves the spinal cord and would not typically present with gastrointestinal symptoms.
The patient is likely suffering from Aganglionic Megacolon, also known as Hirschsprung's disease. This condition is characterized by the absence of ganglion cells in the wall of the intestine, leading to a lack of normal peristalsis and obstruction in the colon. As a result, the patient experiences symptoms such as poor appetite, distended abdomen, and infrequent bowel movements.Ulcerative colitis, rectal atresia/stenosis, omphalocele, and meningocele are not associated with the symptoms mentioned. Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease that typically presents with diarrhea and bloody stools. Rectal atresia/stenosis refers to a blockage or narrowing of the rectum or anus. Omphalocele is a birth defect where organs protrude through the belly button. Meningocele is a type of spina bifida where the protective covering of the spinal cord protrudes through an opening in the spine.