Congenital diaphragmatic hernia: report of a case with a late presentation

Abstract

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a simple defect of the diaphragm of unknown aetiology, with an incidence of 1 in 2,200 to 2,400 births. It presents most frequently in the newborn period, with respiratory distress and is an important cause of newborn morbi-mortality by causing variable degrees of pulmonary hypoplasia and hypertension. Late presenting cases represent between 5% and 25% of all cases and have a better prognosis. We present the case of a 5 month child with a right sided CDH diagnosed by a chest x-ray, we discuss the pathogenesis, treatment and prognosis. In conclusion when CDH is diagnosed later in life the prognosis is better and the results of surgery excellent.