congenital diaphragmatic hernia
Also written as: CDH — congenital diaphragmatic hernia
A birth defect where abdominal organs herniate into the chest cavity through a diaphragmatic defect, causing respiratory compromise.
Full Definition
Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a birth defect characterized by incomplete formation of the diaphragm, allowing abdominal organs to herniate into the thoracic cavity. This condition occurs in approximately 1 in 2,500 births and can range from mild to life-threatening severity. The herniation typically occurs on the left side (Bochdalek hernia) and can include stomach, intestines, liver, or spleen. Pulmonary hypoplasia and pulmonary hypertension are common complications due to compression during fetal development. Diagnosis may be made prenatally via ultrasound or postnatally when respiratory distress develops. Treatment requires immediate respiratory support and surgical repair of the diaphragmatic defect, often with prosthetic material in large defects.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as CDH. Note that Bochdalek hernia is the most common type (posterolateral defect).
In Context
- "Prenatal ultrasound detected a left-sided congenital diaphragmatic hernia with significant mediastinal shift." — Prenatal consultation note