What is a potential risk factor for Hirschsprung's disease in newborns?

A potential risk factor for Hirschsprung's disease in newborns is failure to pass meconium within 24-48 hours. Hirschsprung's disease, also known as congenital aganglionic megacolon, is a condition where nerve cells are absent in parts of the colon, which prevents the normal passage of stool. In healthy newborns, the first stool, called meconium, should typically be passed within the first 24 to 48 hours of life. When a newborn does not pass meconium within this timeframe, it may indicate a blockage or a motility issue in the intestine, which is characteristic of Hirschsprung's disease. This failure to pass meconium is often one of the first signs that alert healthcare providers to the possibility of this condition.

Irregular heart rate, excessive weight gain, and recurrent respiratory infections are not directly related to Hirschsprung's disease. While these conditions might indicate other health issues or concerns in newborns, they do not specifically serve as risk factors for Hirschsprung's disease itself. Recognizing the clinical signs, such as the failure to pass meconium, is essential for early diagnosis and management of this condition.