Other conditions with symptoms similar to Hirschsprung's disease

Other conditions that may cause symptoms similar to those of Hirschsprung's disease include:

  • Colon blockage that occurs when meconium—the sticky, dark green or black substance that forms the newborn's first stool—becomes stuck in the baby's bowel (meconium plug syndrome). This may also indicate cystic fibrosis.
  • An abnormally narrow or tight anus (anal stenosis) or other malformations of the anus or rectum.
  • A tumor growing on the inside or outside of the intestines.
  • A cyst growing on the inside or outside of the intestines.
  • Other nerve or muscle problems of the gastrointestinal tract, which are collectively known as chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction disorders. These are rare.
  • A blockage of the intestine due to part of the intestine not forming (intestinal artesia).


Author: Amy Fackler, MA
Debby Golonka, MPH
Last Updated: October 16, 2006
Medical Review: Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics
Paul E. Hyman, MD - Pediatric Gastroenterology

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