Kosin Medical Journal

Review article

Long-term outcomes and multidisciplinary management in children with anorectal malformations: Hira Ahmad, Ashish Chogle, Zoe Flyer, Donald Shaul, Gyu Min Yeon, Seom Gim Kong, So Yoon Choi; Kosin Med J. 2025;40(3):167-176. Published online September 23, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.7180/kmj.25.120

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub: Anorectal malformations (ARMs) represent a spectrum of congenital anomalies affecting the distal rectum and anus, often accompanied by genitourinary and spinal defects. Despite advances in surgical techniques, long-term gastrointestinal dysfunction, such as fecal incontinence and chronic constipation, remains prevalent in individuals with various types of ARMs. These persistent challenges contribute to considerable psychosocial morbidity, including anxiety, depression, and diminished quality of life. Integrated mental health, nutritional, and social support are essential to address the complex needs of ARM patients. Effective management requires a stepwise approach, beginning with dietary modifications and behavioral therapy, and progressing to pharmacological, surgical, and neuromodulatory interventions as clinically indicated. Long-term follow-up and structured transitional care, especially during adolescence, are critical for promoting medical autonomy and addressing sexual and reproductive health. International and national registries support data standardization and multicenter collaboration. Future research should prioritize identifying predictive biomarkers, refining neuromodulation, characterizing microbiome-related mechanisms, and utilizing artificial intelligence to personalize care. Sustained multidisciplinary efforts are critical to improving functional outcomes and overall quality of life in children with ARMs.

Case report

A fatal pediatric case of acute fulminant cerebral edema with COVID-19 in Korea: a case report: Minyoung Jung, Chi Eun Oh, Yujin Nam, Dalo Jung, Gyu Min Yeon; Kosin Med J. 2024;39(3):220-225. Published online September 10, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.7180/kmj.24.102

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub: Although most children with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection present with mild symptoms, a few pediatric patients develop severe neurological manifestations. Herein, we describe the case of a pediatric patient who presented with rapidly progressive diffuse and fatal cerebral edema associated with COVID-19. A previously healthy 6-year-old boy was diagnosed with acute fulminant cerebral edema (AFCE), which resulted in transtentorial downward herniation within 48 hours after the initial onset of fever. Detailed history-taking, close monitoring of the consciousness level with serial neurological examinations, and prompt diagnosis and treatment are required in patients suspected to have AFCE. Further research is needed to identify the pathogenesis of AFCE associated with COVID-19 and the related risk factors.

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