Bezoars
Bezoars
Bezoars (/biːˈzɔːrz/) are solid masses of indigestible material that accumulate in the digestive tract, usually the stomach. The term originates from the Arabic word "bazahr" or the Persian word "padzahr", both meaning "antidote".
Types of Bezoars
There are several types of bezoars, each named for the material they are composed of:
- Phytobezoars are composed of indigestible plant material, like fibers, skins, and seeds of fruits and vegetables.
- Trichobezoars are formed from hair or hair-like fibers, such as carpet or clothing fibers. This type is often associated with trichotillomania (compulsive hair-pulling disorder) and trichophagia (compulsive eating of hair).
- Pharmacobezoars are a result of accumulated medication, usually tablets or semi-liquid masses of drugs.
- Lactobezoars are composed of milk protein and are most commonly seen in premature infants.
Causes
Bezoars are caused by the ingestion of indigestible materials. Certain conditions can increase the risk of bezoar formation, including gastroparesis (delayed gastric emptying), hypochlorhydria (low stomach acid), and previous gastric surgery.
Symptoms
Symptoms of bezoars can vary depending on the size and location of the mass. They may include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, weight loss, and a feeling of fullness after eating only a small amount of food. In severe cases, bezoars can cause gastric ulcers, intestinal bleeding, and obstruction.
Treatment
Treatment for bezoars often involves the removal of the mass. This can be done through endoscopy, surgery, or in some cases, medication to dissolve the bezoar. The choice of treatment depends on the type, size, and location of the bezoar.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Bezoars
- Wikipedia's article - Bezoars
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