[Segmental dilatation of the ileum in a neonate. Study of the myenteric plexus with a silver staining preparation (author's transl)].

A case of segmental dilatation of the ileum in a neonate is reported. Conventional staining methods failed to show any abnormality, but a study of the myenteric plexus with a silver preparation demonstrated reduction in the number of agyrophil neurons and irregular and altered neuron cell bodies. Occurring in a neonate, therefore without previous clinical history, this case, together with various published data suggests that in some cases segmental dilatation of the ileum is due to congenital damage to the myenteric plexus.