Megacolon

Megacolon is an abnormal dilation of the colon, often resulting from chronic constipation, obstruction, or nerve damage, leading to impaired motility. Clinically, it is significant as it can cause severe abdominal pain, distension, and complications such as bowel perforation or fecal impaction, necessitating timely intervention. A key association is Hirschsprung's disease, a congenital condition where nerve cells are absent in a segment of the colon, leading to functional obstruction.