Paediatrics: Bezoars

Bezoars

Bezoars are FB concretions composed of hair (trichobezoar) or vegetable matter (phytobezoar). The bezoar forms in the stomach and may extend into the small bowel. Bezoars are most commonly seen in young girls who present with:

·weight loss;

• vomiting;

• abdominal pain;

·anaemia.

Diagnosis

• An abdominal mass may be palpable.

• Barium meal or endoscopy will confirm the abnormality.

Surgical treatment

• Large bezoars: open surgical removal is necessary.

Smaller bezoars: endoscopic removal.