Bezoar

Definition

A bezoar is a ball of swallowed foreign material (usually hair or fiber) that collects in the stomach and fails to pass through the intestines.

Alternative Names

Causes

Chewing on or eating hair or fuzzy materials (or indigestible materials such as plastic bags) can lead to the formation of a bezoar. The incidence is very low and the risk is greater among mentally retarded or emotionally disturbed children. Generally bezoars are seen in females (approximately 90%) aged 10 to 19.

Symptoms

• indigestion
• stomach upset or distress
• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• pain
• gastric ulcers

Exams and Tests

The child may have a lump in the abdomen (stomach) that can be felt by the health care provider. A barium swallow X-ray will show the mass in the stomach, sometimes a scope if used (endoscopy) to directly visualize the bezoar.

Treatment

The bezoar may need to be surgically removed (especially trichobezoars which tend to be large). Sometimes small bezoars can be removed through a scope placed through the mouth and into the stomach (similar to an EGD procedure). Then, follow the prevention measures described.

Outlook (Prognosis)

Full recovery is expected.

Possible Complications

Persistent vomiting can lead to dehydration

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call your health care provider if you suspect your child has a bezoar.

Prevention

If your child has had a bezoar in the past, trim the child's hair short so he or she cannot put the ends in the mouth. Keep indigestible materials away from a child that has a tendency to put items in the mouth.

Be sure to remove the child's access to fuzzy or fiber-filled materials.