Growth factors, their receptors, neuropeptide-containing innervation, and matrix metalloproteinases in the proximal and distal ends of the esophagus in children with esophageal atresia.

Objective: The pathogenesis of esophageal atresia (EA) remains unknown despite a relatively high incidence of this anomaly in population affecting 1 newborn per 3000 live births. The aim of this study was to examine the relative occurrence of growth factors, their receptors, neuropeptide-containing innervation, and tissue-degradating enzymes--matrix metalloproteinases--in the proximal and distal parts of the esophagus with EA.

Materials And Methods: A histopathological study was conducted on 15 patients with EA.