Ann Med Surg (Lond)

. 2025 Sep 24;87(11):7579-7582.

 doi: 10.1097/MS9.0000000000003961. eCollection 2025 Nov. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41180738/

Bilateral Morgagni hernia in a Palestinian child with Down syndrome: a rare case report and literature review

Anwar Abu Hetta ^1 2, Amal M Shawabka ², Bara M AbuIrayyeh ², Bushra Kh Pujee ², Iman M Alwahsh ², Haneen I Eid ², Rahaf W Thabaineh ²

Affiliations Expand

• PMID: 41180738
• PMCID: PMC12577932
• DOI: 10.1097/MS9.0000000000003961

Abstract

Introduction and importance: Morgagni hernia (MH) is the rarest congenital diaphragmatic hernia, comprising 2-5% of cases, usually right-sided. Bilateral MH is extremely rare, with poorer outcomes, and often involves herniation of abdominal organs into the thoracic cavity. Down syndrome (DS) increases MH risk, but bilateral cases in DS are seldom reported.

Case presentation: A 14-month-old Palestinian male with karyotype-confirmed DS presented with recurrent respiratory infections. Chest radiography revealed a cystic thoracic mass. Computed tomography confirmed bilateral MH containing the transverse colon.

Clinical discussion: Bilateral MH in DS is rare and may present with nonspecific respiratory symptoms. Imaging is crucial for diagnosis, and surgical repair prevents serious complications. The patient underwent uneventful open repair, with no recurrence to date.

Conclusion: In DS patients with persistent respiratory distress, bilateral MH should be considered. Early diagnosis and timely surgery can achieve excellent outcomes despite its rarity.

Keywords: bilateral diaphragmatic hernia; case report; congenital anomalies; down syndrome; morgagni hernia.

Copyright © 2025 The Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.