Frequency of loss of calretinin expression in clinically susceptible cases of Hirschprung disease in rectal biopsies

Objective: To determine the frequency of loss of calretinin expression in clinically susceptible cases of Hirschprung disease in rectal biopsies. Material and Methods: This descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted at Department of Histopathology, Combined Military Hospital, Multan for a period of 6 months (17th Oct 2021 to 16th April 2022). A total 93 suspected cases of Hirschprung disease were taken. Specimens received in 10 % buffered formalin and fulfilling inclusion criteria were included in the study. The cases diagnosed as Hirschprung disease were taken and calretinin immunohistochemical stain was applied and result recorded after evaluation by consultant histopathologist. Data was analyzed using (Statistical Software for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 19). Results: Out of 93 cases, 67 (72.0%) were male patients, whereas 26 (28.0%) were female patients. The average age of the study participants was 7.95 months, with a minimum age of 1 month and a maximum age of 12 months. Twenty-eight (30.1%) of the 93 study cases were from rural areas, while 65 (69.9%) were from metropolitan areas. Twenty-five families (26.9%) reported monthly incomes of up to Rs. 35000, while 68 families (73.1%) reported incomes of over Rs. 35,000. Of these 93 study cases, failure to pass meconium was noted in 24 (25.8%) patients, constipation was noted in 75 (80.6%) and abdominal distension was noted in 62 (66.7%) patients. Loss of calretinin expression was noted in 34 (36.6%) of our study cases. Conclusion: According to the findings of our investigation, calretinin is very helpful in identifying suspicious cases of Hirschsprung disease. When acetylcholinesterase enzyme histochemistry is not accessible, it can be a helpful, cost-effective diagnostic assistance in centers with limited resources. It is a reliable and efficient diagnostic tool for early diagnosis of the illness. Loss of Calretinin expression was significantly associated with age and residential status.