**Core Concept**
Hirschsprung's disease is a congenital condition affecting the large intestine (colon), characterized by the absence of ganglion cells in the distal colon and rectum. This deficiency leads to a functional obstruction due to the failure of the affected segment to relax and allow passage of stool.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
In Hirschsprung's disease, the absence of ganglion cells results from a failure of neural crest migration during embryonic development. The affected segment of the colon and rectum is characterized by the presence of nerve fibers and the absence of ganglion cells, leading to an accumulation of stool and a functional obstruction. The condition can cause severe constipation, abdominal distension, and intestinal obstruction in newborns.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option might describe a condition like intestinal obstruction due to a mechanical blockage, which is not related to the absence of ganglion cells.
**Option B:** This option might describe a condition like megacolon, which can be a complication of Hirschsprung's disease but is not the defining characteristic of the condition.
**Option C:** This option might describe a condition like intestinal atresia, which is a different congenital anomaly affecting the small intestine.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Hirschsprung's disease is often associated with other congenital anomalies, such as Down syndrome, and can be diagnosed prenatally using ultrasound or postnatally using a rectal biopsy.

**Correct Answer: D. Absence of ganglion cells in the distal colon and rectum.**