choanal atresia
Pronunciation: ko-AH-nal ah-TREE-zee-ah
Congenital blockage of nasal passages at the back of the nose.
Full Definition
A congenital condition in which one or both posterior nasal passages (choanae) are blocked by abnormal tissue or bone, preventing normal airflow through the nose. Since newborns are obligate nasal breathers, bilateral choanal atresia constitutes a respiratory emergency requiring immediate intervention to establish an oral airway. Unilateral atresia may be less obvious initially but can cause feeding difficulties and chronic nasal congestion. The condition may be associated with CHARGE syndrome and other genetic conditions. Surgical correction is typically required to open the blocked passages.
Usage
Usage note: Greek origin meaning 'funnel absence'; note spelling of 'choanal' not 'choinal'.
In Context
- "Bilateral choanal atresia was suspected when the infant became cyanotic with mouth closure." — Emergency assessment
- "CT imaging confirmed bony choanal atresia requiring endoscopic surgical repair." — Radiology report