What are the symptoms of abdominal muscle deficiency syndrome?

Generally, the absence of abdominal muscles refers to a congenital developmental anomaly characterized by underdevelopment or absence of the abdominal muscles. Symptoms of this syndrome include a flat and flaccid abdominal wall, umbilical hernia, growth retardation, abnormal posture, congenital malformations, among others. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Flat and flaccid abdominal wall

Patients with abdominal muscle absence syndrome typically have an abnormally flat abdomen, due to underdevelopment or absence of the abdominal muscles, which results in a lack of necessary muscular support. Consequently, the abdominal wall becomes loose and flaccid; sometimes internal organs can be clearly seen or palpated through the abdominal wall.

2. Umbilical hernia

Due to structural defects in the abdominal wall, the peritoneum or abdominal tissue around the navel tends to protrude outward, forming an umbilical hernia. This hernial sac becomes more noticeable when intra-abdominal pressure increases, such as during crying, straining, or coughing, and may reduce or disappear when intra-abdominal pressure decreases. Umbilical hernias may be accompanied by pain or discomfort.

3. Growth retardation

Patients with abdominal muscle absence syndrome may experience delayed growth and development. The inability to perform normal abdominal muscle exercises due to muscle deficiency can affect normal physical development, potentially resulting in patients falling behind their peers in terms of height and weight.

4. Abnormal posture

Weakness of the abdominal muscles may prevent patients from maintaining normal sitting and standing postures, leading to postural abnormalities. Over time, this may increase the burden on the spine and lead to the development of scoliosis.

5. Congenital malformations

Abdominal muscle absence syndrome may also be associated with other congenital malformations, such as cryptorchidism, congenital megacystis, and urinary tract anomalies. These associated conditions may further worsen the patient's condition and increase the difficulty of treatment.

Parents should regularly monitor growth and developmental indicators such as height and weight. If growth retardation is detected, timely medical consultation is necessary to seek diagnosis and treatment recommendations from a specialist physician.