choanal atresia
Pronunciation: koh-AY-nal ah-TREE-zhah
A congenital blockage of the nasal passages that can cause severe respiratory distress in newborns who are obligate nose breathers.
Full Definition
Choanal atresia is a congenital malformation characterized by complete obstruction of the posterior nasal apertures (choanae) due to persistence of tissue that normally resorbs during fetal development. The obstruction can be unilateral or bilateral and may consist of bone, soft tissue, or mixed composition. Bilateral choanal atresia is a neonatal emergency because newborns are obligate nose breathers and may develop severe respiratory distress, cyanosis, and feeding difficulties. Unilateral atresia may not be diagnosed until later in childhood when chronic nasal discharge or breathing difficulties become apparent. The condition is often associated with CHARGE syndrome and other congenital anomalies. Diagnosis is confirmed by inability to pass a catheter through the nasal passage and imaging studies. Treatment involves surgical correction to create a patent nasal airway.
Usage
Usage note: Note that bilateral cases are medical emergencies. Often associated with CHARGE syndrome - consider genetic evaluation.
In Context
- "The newborn developed severe respiratory distress due to bilateral choanal atresia requiring emergency intubation." — Emergency department report