Which pathological condition is most commonly linked to improper rotation of the midgut during development?

A Volvulus

B Intussusception

C Meckel's diverticulum

D Hirschsprung's disease

Solution

Correct Answer: Option A

- Improper rotation of the midgut during embryonic development can lead to several complications, but the most common pathological condition associated with this abnormality is volvulus.

- During normal development, the midgut undergoes a 270-degree counterclockwise rotation around the axis of the superior mesenteric artery.
- If this rotation is incomplete or abnormal, the intestines are not properly fixed in the abdominal cavity.
- This abnormal fixation predisposes the bowel to twist around itself, causing volvulus.
- This twisting can lead to intestinal obstruction and compromise of the blood supply, resulting in ischemia and potential bowel necrosis, which is a surgical emergency.

In contrast, the other options listed have different etiologies:
- Intussusception is commonly caused by a segment of intestine telescoping into an adjacent distal segment, often related to lymphoid hyperplasia or pathological lead points, not related to midgut rotation.
- Meckel's diverticulum results from incomplete obliteration of the vitelline (omphalomesenteric) duct and is unrelated to gut rotation.
- Hirschsprung's disease is a congenital absence of ganglion cells in the distal colon, leading to functional obstruction and megacolon, unrelated to midgut rotation abnormalities.

Therefore, when considering the consequence of improper midgut rotation, volvulus is the most clinically significant and common pathological condition.

Reference: Robbins & Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th Edition, Chapter 20: Disorders of Intestines and Peritoneum

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