QUESTION: My friend claims he was born without an "anus" (my translation: AHB).
Is this possible? How could he still be alive now? If this is just a gag, you don't have to answer it, but if it could be I would like to know how.
ANSWER: Yes, it is possible, and it's called an "Imperforate Anus" in medical circles.
It is the result of an inherited malformation, a membrane, and occurs in males.
It is present at birth, and the first sign of its presence may be the lack of any stools in the first days of life.
After two or three days, the abdomen begins to distend from accumulating gases in the colon and intestine.
The membrane can be felt on rectal examination if it is low down, but can also be shown on x-ray.
With the infant's head down, an object that is opaque to x-rays is inserted in the anus.
Gas in the colon rises, and can be shown to be separated from the opaque object by a membrane of varying thickness.
Once discovered, a surgical procedure is used to remove the obstruction, and restore the opening to normal.
The condition requires a most careful evaluation, for frequently it is associated with other malformations of the lower intestinal tract.
The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace the counsel and advice of your personal physician.
Promptly consulting your doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical problem.
