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Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

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EasyNeonatologyCongenital Diaphragmatic HerniaRACP Paediatrics

A term newborn presents with respiratory distress, cyanosis, and absent breath sounds on the left side. Bowel sounds are heard in the left chest. Chest X-ray shows bowel loops in the left hemithorax with mediastinal shift to the right. What is the diagnosis?

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Correct answer: D — Congenital diaphragmatic hernia

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) presents with respiratory distress at birth, absent breath sounds on the affected side, and the presence of bowel sounds in the chest. Chest X-ray shows bowel loops in the thorax with mediastinal shift. The left side is more commonly affected (Bochdalek hernia). Management includes intubation (avoid bag-mask ventilation), NG decompression, and surgical repair.

Reference: RCH Melbourne – 2024 – Clinical Practice Guidelines: Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia