Question
A neonate presents with failure to pass meconium. The structure absent in the pathology lies in which of the following layers?
| A. |
Mucosal Layer , Submucosa
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| B. |
Submucosa , Muscularis externa
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| C. |
Muscularis externa ,Epithelium
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| D. |
Mucosal Layer ,Empithelium
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Show Answer
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Correct Answer » B
Explanation
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Explanation
Failure to pass meconium in a neonate raises suspicion for conditions like Hirschsprung disease (congenital aganglionic megacolon). In Hirschsprung disease, the ganglion cells (which are part of the enteric nervous system) fail to migrate into the distal bowel during fetal development. These ganglion cells are essential for the normal contraction of the bowel to propel stool.
The absent ganglion cells in Hirschsprung disease are found in the muscularis propria and submucosal layers (e.g., Auerbach’s and Meissner’s plexuses), and their absence results in a lack of peristalsis in the affected segment of the bowel.
