Late-presenting congenital diaphragmatic hernia in pediatric emergency room: two case reports

A congenital diaphragmatic hernia is a serious, complex condition with high mortality. It is actually mostly diagnosed prenatally. In most cases, it presents in the neonatal period, but can rarely present later in life when it becomes symptomatic. The clinical presentation and prognosis depend on the time of visceral herniation. We report two cases of left Bochdalek hernia with delayed presentation. The two cases shared some important characteristics. In both patients, the asymptomatic period ended with an acute attack of disease. To initiate appropriate therapy, emergency doctors need to be aware of the various presentations of a delayed left-sided diaphragmatic hernia.