Late CDH triggered by mild trauma

Abstract: Background: Congenital diaphragmatic hernia usually presents during the neonatal period; diagnosis beyond this age represents a considerable diagnostic challenge.
Case Report: An 11-year-old boy presented with acute onset respiratory distress, abdominal pain and vomiting after mild abdominal trauma. He underwent laparotomy, which revealed left Bochdalek diaphragmatic hernia. Imaging is described, with discussion of surgical outcome.
Conclusions: Late presenting CDH characterized by unspecific and wide spectrum of clinical manifestations and should be considered in any child with unspecific gastrointestinal or respiratory symptoms, even after trauma.

Keywords: Bochdalek’s hernia, congenital diaphragmatic hernia, late presentation, abdominal trauma in children