True statement regarding Hirschsprung’s disease?
**Core Concept**
Hirschsprung's disease is a congenital condition characterized by the absence of ganglion cells in the distal colon and rectum, leading to a functional obstruction due to the failure of the affected segment to relax and permit passage of stool.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The absence of ganglion cells in Hirschsprung's disease is due to a mutation in the RET proto-oncogene, which is involved in the development of the enteric nervous system. This results in a failure of neural crest cells to migrate to the distal colon and rectum during embryogenesis, leading to a lack of peristalsis and a functional obstruction. The affected segment of the colon is typically aganglionic, meaning it lacks the ganglion cells necessary for normal peristalsis.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because Hirschsprung's disease is not primarily caused by a viral infection.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because Hirschsprung's disease is not typically associated with a family history of the condition.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because Hirschsprung's disease is not primarily treated with antibiotics.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key diagnostic feature of Hirschsprung's disease is the presence of a transition zone between the aganglionic and normal segments of the colon, where the mucosa and submucosa are thickened and the muscularis is thin.
**Correct Answer: D.**