What Is a Bezoar?

This post was written with Consensus AI Academic Search Engine – please read our Disclaimer at the end of this article. A bezoar is a mass found trapped in the gastrointestinal system, though they can occur in other locations. They are typically composed of indigestible materials that accumulate and coalesce into a solid mass. Bezoars can vary in size and composition, depending on the materials that form them.

Types of Bezoars

Bezoars are classified into several types based on their composition:

• Phytobezoars: These are the most common type and are composed of indigestible plant fibers, such as cellulose. They often form from the consumption of fruits and vegetables that are high in fiber. 
• Trichobezoars: These are formed from ingested hair and are often associated with trichotillomania, a condition where individuals have a compulsion to pull out their hair and ingest it. 
• Pharmacobezoars: These are composed of medications that do not dissolve properly in the digestive tract, leading to the formation of a mass. 
• Lactobezoars: These occur in infants and are composed of milk curds. 

Causes and Risk Factors

Bezoars can form due to various reasons, including:

• Dietary Habits: Consuming large amounts of fibrous foods without adequate chewing can lead to phytobezoar formation. 
• Medical Conditions: Conditions that affect gastric motility, such as gastroparesis, can increase the risk of bezoar formation. 
• Behavioral Factors: Ingesting non-food items, such as hair or medications, can lead to trichobezoars and pharmacobezoars, respectively. 

Symptoms and Diagnosis

The presence of a bezoar can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and gastrointestinal obstruction. Diagnosis is typically made through imaging studies, such as X-rays or endoscopy, which can visualize the mass within the gastrointestinal tract.

Treatment and Management

Treatment of bezoars depends on their size and composition. Options include:

• Endoscopic Removal: Small bezoars can often be removed endoscopically. 
• Surgical Intervention: Larger bezoars may require surgical removal, especially if they cause obstruction. 
• Enzymatic Therapy: Certain enzymes can help dissolve bezoars, particularly phytobezoars. 

Conclusion

Bezoars are masses formed from indigestible materials in the gastrointestinal tract, with various types based on their composition. They can cause significant symptoms and require different treatment approaches depending on their size and type. Understanding the causes and risk factors can help in preventing their formation.

Disclaimer

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