Congenital Anomalies of the Esophagus and Trachea

Also known as: congenital malformations of the esophagus and trachea, congenital abnormalities of the esophagus and trachea.

What are congenital anomalies of the esophagus and trachea?

Congenital anomalies of the esophagus and trachea are problems with either the esophagus or the trachea (the windpipe) that are present at birth. There are several different kinds that vary in nature and severity.

What causes congenital anomalies of the esophagus and trachea?

In many cases, congenital anomalies of the esophagus and trachea are due to genetic defects that are present in the fetus before birth. In some cases these problems are passed along from parents to children, while in other situations the mutations occur randomly.

What are the symptoms of congenital anomalies of the esophagus and trachea?

Common symptoms can include difficulty breathing, choking while eating or drinking, coughing, vomiting, foamy saliva, a round abdomen or a blue color to the skin, among other symptoms.

What are congenital anomalies of the esophagus and trachea care options?

Many congenital anomalies of the esophagus and trachea will need to be repaired surgically in order for the baby to live a healthy life.


Reviewed by: Brian Ho, MD

This page was last updated on: October 03, 2019 02:55 PM