Existing comment:
Megacolon:
An abnormally enlarged colon may be a congenital or an acquired trait. Congenital megacolon is due to a functional loss of the nerves in a segment of the colon. Damage to the nerves that normally help pass undigested matter through the intestine results in obstruction and enlargement of the colon. Acquired megacolon may be associated with chronic constipation, leading to a marked enlargement caused by obstruction. This megacolon was removed from a 19-year-old man with a history of constipation. |