Choanal atresia and its associated anomalies. Further support for the CHARGE Association

Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol. 1985 Mar;8(3):237-42. doi: 10.1016/s0165-5876(85)80084-7.

Abstract

The finding of choanal atresia warrants careful and prompt consideration of other severe congenital anomalies in the newborn. In a chart review of 41 patients with the diagnosis of choanal atresia, 17 patients (41%) had choanal atresia alone while 24 (59%) had at least one other anomaly. Twenty-four (59%) of all patients had bilateral choanal atresia, and 75% of the patients with at least one other anomaly had bilateral choanal atresia. The following features were found to be associated with bilateral choanal atresia: significant structural heart disease (21%), postnatal growth retardation (36%), psychomotor retardation (19%), sensorineural deafness (21%), velopharyngeal discoordination (15%), micrognathia (12%), blocked tear duct (10%), high-arched palate (15%), and facial asymmetry (7%). Twenty-one other anomalies were described. Coloboma was encountered in 10% of our patients and only 3 patients had all of the features originally described in the CHARGE Association. The non-random association of multiple anomalies suggested by the eponym, CHARGE is discussed, and further data is offered for evaluating the child who presents with choanal atresia.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Abnormalities, Multiple*
  • Central Nervous System / abnormalities*
  • Child, Preschool
  • Coloboma / complications*
  • Female
  • Growth Disorders / complications*
  • Heart Defects, Congenital / complications*
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Nasal Cavity / abnormalities*
  • Syndrome