title: Anorectal malformation: the etiological factors.
abstract: Anorectal malformation (ARM) is a congenital anomaly commonly encountered in pediatric surgery practice. Although surgical procedures correct the anatomical anomalies, the post-operative bowel function is not universally satisfactory. The etiology of ARM remains unclear. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of the genetic and epigenetic factors contributing to the pathogenesis of ARM, based on published animal models, human genetics and epidemiological researches. Appreciation of these factors may be helpful in the management of ARM in the future.
authors.affiliation: Department of Pediatric Surgery, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, No.2 Ya Bao Road, Beijing, 100020, People's Republic of China.
authors.forename: Chen
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Wang
authors.forename: Long
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Li
authors.forename: Wei
authors.initials: W
authors.lastname: Cheng
mesh_terms: D001003:Anal Canal / Q000002:abnormalities*; D000071056:Anorectal Malformations; D001006:Anus, Imperforate / Q000235:genetics*; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D012007:Rectum / Q000002:abnormalities*; D012307:Risk Factors