[Neonatal small left colon syndrome].

Delay in diagnosis and treatment can result in serious complications in the otherwise benign neonatal small left colon syndrome. This condition was first distinguished from other forms of microcolon by Davis et al. (1974), and subsequently reports have suggested a surgical orientation. The condition presents as a low obstruction of the large bowel, similar to Hirschsprung's disease in the newborn. There is failure to pass meconium, with tympanitic distention of the abdomen and bilious vomiting. Contrast radiography, particularly with Gastrografin, shows a smooth, narrow sigmoid and descending colon, with proximal dilatation of the large bowel. However, the enema also promotes both the rapid evacuation of meconium and the early establishment of normal defecation. Many of the mothers of such babies have diabetes mellitus. A group of5 babies illustrates the practical management of the condition; 2 of them are described in detail.