[Value of the histoenzymologic characterization of esterases in normal and pathologic rectal mucosa in children. Preliminary results of 30 cases].

The presence of cholinergic nerve fibers is studied in 30 suction rectal biopsy specimens from 5 days to 7 years old children. An increase in numbers and size of cholinergic fibers in the lamina propria and muscularis mucosae and absence of submucosa ganglion cells are related to 7 Hirschsprung's diseases. In the neonates acetylcholinesterase activity may not be strong enough to stain cholinergic fibers and makes the diagnosis more difficult.