CLINICAL FEATURES AND COURSE OF HIRSCHSPRUNG'S DISEASE IN YOUNG CHILDREN

Hirschsprung's disease is a congenital disorder of the intestine that can cause serious digestive problems in children from the first days of life. The disease occurs when nerve cells are absent from a part of the bowel, preventing normal movement of intestinal contents. Early recognition of the disease is important because delayed diagnosis may lead to intestinal obstruction, inflammation, and other complications. This article discusses the clinical features and course of Hirschsprung's disease in newborns, infants, and young children. Particular attention is given to the most common symptoms, including delayed passage of meconium, persistent constipation, abdominal distension, vomiting, and feeding difficulties. The clinical presentation may vary depending on the child's age, the length of the affected bowel segment, and the severity of intestinal dysfunction. In some children, symptoms appear immediately after birth, while in others, the disease becomes more noticeable during infancy or early childhood. The article also highlights the importance of timely diagnosis, careful clinical assessment, and appropriate treatment. Understanding the clinical course of Hirschsprung's disease can help healthcare professionals recognize the condition earlier, reduce the risk of complications, and improve the quality of life of affected children.