Radiol Case Rep

. 2024 Sep 14;19(12):5867-5871.

 doi: 10.1016/j.radcr.2024.08.104. eCollection 2024 Dec. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39314651/

Delayed presentation of congenital diaphragmatic hernia: A report of 2 cases

Jay Lodhia ^1 2, Bahati Robert Kitandu ¹, Venant Ntakarutimana ¹, Stephen Gondwe ³, David Msuya ^1 2

Affiliations Expand

• PMID: 39314651
• PMCID: PMC11418101
• DOI: 10.1016/j.radcr.2024.08.104

Abstract

Late presentation of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) presents usually after the neonatal period and often misdiagnosed for other respiratory pathologies. It is crucial to differentiate late presentation of CDH from other potential causes of respiratory distress and gastrointestinal symptoms. Herein, we present 2 cases of delayed presentation of congenital diaphragmatic hernia in infants. Initially, both cases were managed as respiratory conditions in outpatient settings, with no significant improvement. The correct diagnosis was eventually made through radiological evaluation at our tertiary centre, leading to successful surgical management. Delayed presentation of CDH beyond the neonatal period is rare, owing to the wide spectrum of clinical manifestations. Early diagnosis and surgical management are crucial to reduce morbidity and mortality, making a high index of suspicion essential for timely intervention.

Keywords: Congenital diaphragmatic hernia; Delay; Diagnosis; Radiology; Surgery.

© 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. on behalf of University of Washington.