Anal atresia is a congenital birth defect that is characterized by the absence of an anus. As a result, stool is inhibited from leaving the body. In this article we will discuss the signs and symptoms, causes, risk factors and complications for anal atresia.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with anal atresia after taking an antidepressant, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free confidential case evaluation. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.
Anal Atresia Signs & Symptoms
Anal atresia symptoms may include:
- Anal opening very close to the vaginal opening in girls
- Missing or misplaced opening to the anus
- No passages of stool within 24 – 48 hours after birth
- Stool passes out of the vagina, base of penis, scrotum, or urethra
- Swollen belly
Anal Atresia Causes
For the most part, doctors agree that the specific causes of anal atresia in children remain unknown. However, in July 2006, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning about the birth defect risks caused by using antidepressants during pregnancy. Antidepressants have been linked to an increased risk of anal atresia in children born to mothers who took them during pregnancy. The following is a list of antidepressant medications that have been linked to this type of birth defect:
- Paroxetine
- Zoloft (Sertraline)
- Celexa (Citalopram)
- Prozac (Fluoxetine)
- Lexapro (Escitalopram)
- Fluvoxamine
- Symbyax (fluoxetine and olanzapine)
- Bupropion
- Effexor (Venlafaxine)
Anal Atresia Risk Factors
Anal atresia, like all congenital birth defects, occurs during the earliest developmental stages of the fetus. A pregnant mother’s exposure to medications like the antidepressants listed above may increase the risk of her child to develop anal atresia.
Anal Atresia Complications
Those suffering from anal atresia may develop the following complications:
- Bowel incontinence
- Constipation
- Intestinal blockage
Do I have an Anal Atresia Lawsuit?
The trial lawyers at The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP have decades of experience navigating through complex legislative and regulatory issues and litigating high stakes cases all over the nation. Our law firm focuses on the representation of plaintiffs in anal atresia lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.
Again, if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with anal atresia after taking an antidepressant, you should contact our lawyers immediately by clicking the link below or calling toll free 1-(949) 557-5800. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.