Duodenal atresia is a condition in which the duodenum (the first part of the small bowel) has not developed properly. It is not open and cannot allow the passage of stomach contents.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
The cause of duodenal atresia is unknown, but it is thought to result from problems during an embryo's development in which the duodenum does not normally change from a solid to a tube-like structure.
Duodenal atresia is seen in more than 1 in 10,000 live births. Approximately 20-30% of infants with duodenal atresia have Down syndrome. Duodenal atresia is often associated with other birth defects.
Symptoms:
Upper abdominal swelling may or may not be present
Early vomiting of large amounts, which may be greenish (containing bile)
Continued vomiting even when infant has not been fed for several hours
Absent urination after first few voidings
Absent bowel movements after first few meconium stools
Signs and tests:
A fetal ultrasound may show polyhydramnios (excessive amounts of amniotic fluid in the uterus) or swelling of the stomach and part of the duodenum.
An abdominal x-ray may show air in the stomach and first part of duodenum, with no air beyond that.
Review Date: 8/7/2007
Reviewed By: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-Torresdale Hospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Neonatology, Pediatric Surgery 
