How Do You Spell ESOPHAGEAL ATRESIA?

1. Esophageal atresia is a congenital medical condition characterized by the incomplete development or complete absence of the esophagus, the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach. This condition occurs during fetal development when the esophagus fails to form properly, resulting in a discontinuity or blockage.

   Normally, the upper and lower segments of the esophagus are connected, allowing food and liquids to pass from the mouth to the stomach. In the case of esophageal atresia, this connection is disrupted, causing feeding difficulties. The severity of esophageal atresia can vary, with some cases involving a small gap between the two segments and others featuring a complete separation.

   Typically, esophageal atresia is accompanied by another congenital condition called tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF), in which an abnormal connection exists between the trachea and the esophagus. This connection can result in airflow problems and the regurgitation of stomach contents into the lungs, leading to respiratory complications.

   Esophageal atresia primarily requires surgical intervention to repair the esophagus and correct the abnormal connection with the trachea, allowing for normal feeding and preventing further complications. It is usually diagnosed shortly after birth due to the characteristic symptoms, such as coughing, choking, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. With prompt and appropriate medical interventions, the long-term outlook for individuals with esophageal atresia is generally favorable, although they may require ongoing monitoring and care throughout their lives.

Common Misspellings for ESOPHAGEAL ATRESIA

The word "esophageal atresia" is derived from two terms: "esophageal" and "atresia".

- "Esophageal" refers to the esophagus, which is the muscular tube that connects the throat (pharynx) to the stomach. It carries food and liquid from the mouth to the stomach for digestion.

- "Atresia" is a medical term that comes from the Greek word "atretos", meaning "imperforate" or "closed off". It signifies the absence or abnormal closure of a normal opening or passage in the body.

Therefore, "esophageal atresia" refers to a congenital condition in which the esophagus does not develop properly, resulting in a blockage or closure of the esophageal passage.