The Daily PANCE and PANRE Extended Edition: Question 47

During a newborn's first feeding attempt, choking, coughing and cyanosis occur. Historically, the mother had polyhydramnios during the pregnancy. Which diagnosis is most likely the explanation for the newborn's distress?

  1. choanal atresia
  2. respiratory distress syndrome
  3. polycystic kidney disease
  4. congenital heart disease
  5. tracheoesophageal fistula

Answer: E

Tracheoesophageal fistula

This is the classic presentation of tracheoesophageal fistula - when the patient drinks he aspirates because there is a connection between the trachea and the esophagus.

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