choanal atresia
Pronunciation: ko-AN-al ah-TREE-zhah
Congenital blockage of the nasal passages where the nose fails to connect properly with the throat.
Full Definition
Choanal atresia is a congenital anomaly where one or both choanae (posterior nasal openings) are blocked by bone or tissue, preventing normal nasal breathing. Bilateral choanal atresia presents as a neonatal emergency since newborns are obligate nose breathers. Unilateral atresia may not be diagnosed until later when unilateral nasal obstruction becomes apparent. The condition may be isolated or associated with CHARGE syndrome. Diagnosis is confirmed by inability to pass a catheter through the nose and CT imaging. This diagnosis appears in ENT consultations, neonatal emergency records, and genetic evaluation reports.
Usage
Usage note: Note the spelling 'choanal' with 'ch'. Bilateral cases are medical emergencies in newborns.
In Context
- "Bilateral choanal atresia required immediate intubation at delivery." — Neonatal emergency report
- "CT scan confirmed right choanal atresia with bony obstruction." — Radiology report