Choanal atresia

Definition:

A congenital narrowing or blockage of the nasal airway by membranous or bony tissue.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

The cause of choanal atresia is unknown, but the condition is the most common nasal abnormality seen in the newborn infant. Choanal atresia may be either on one side or on both sides.

The newborn must be able to breathe through its nose. In fact, almost the only time an infant does not breathe through its nose is when the baby is crying. Choanal atresia blocking both sides of the nose causes acute breathing problems, with cyanosis and breathing failure. Infants with bilateral choanal atresia may need resuscitation at delivery.

Blockage on only one side causes less severe problems. Choanal atresia is generally recognized shortly after birth while the infant is still in the hospital.