What is the Difference Between Agenesis and Atresia?

The main difference between agenesis and atresia lies in the nature of the abnormalities they describe:

• Agenesis refers to the complete absence of an anatomical structure, including its primordial precursors, due to the failure of an organ to develop during embryonic development. For example, vaginal agenesis is a condition where the Müllerian ducts do not fuse to form the upper part of the vagina.
• Atresia refers to the absence, underdevelopment, or abnormal closure of a normal anatomical tubular structure or opening. For example, vaginal atresia is a condition where the lower portion of the vagina has not formed, resulting in a blockage.

In summary, agenesis is the failure of an organ to form properly during embryonic development due to the absence of primordial tissue, while atresia is the absence or closure of a normal opening in a tubular body part.

Comparative Table: Agenesis vs Atresia

Agenesis and atresia are two different birth defects that can affect the development of organs and body parts. Here is a table summarizing the differences between the two:

Both agenesis and atresia are congenital anomalies, but they differ in the development of the affected organs or body parts. Agenesis occurs when an organ fails to develop, while atresia is characterized by the absence or closure of a normal opening in a tubular structure.