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Stomach phytobezoars in two uremic anorexic patients
C Catalano1, L Leone, F Fabbian
1Renal and Dialysis Unit, Monselice and Este Hospitals, ULSS17, Padova, Italy. carletto.c@job.pd.it
Nephron
|February 28, 2002
Summary
Phytobezoars, or stomach bezoars, are rare in uremic patients. This study highlights their potential link to anorexia and malnutrition in dialysis patients, suggesting clinical consideration for these masses.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Gastroenterology
- Pathology
Background:
- Phytobezoars, concretions of vegetable matter, are uncommon in the general population.
- Uremic patients, particularly those undergoing dialysis, present several risk factors for bezoar formation, including autonomic neuropathy, diabetes mellitus, and delayed gastric emptying.
Observation:
- This report details two cases of uremic patients who presented with dyspepsia and weight loss.
- Esophagogastroduodenoscopy revealed significant phytobezoars in the stomach of both patients.
Findings:
- Gastric phytobezoars can contribute to anorexia, a common and serious symptom in dialysis patients.
- Anorexia in uremic patients is often linked to malnutrition, which carries a high mortality risk and is challenging to manage.
Implications:
- Clinicians managing dialysis patients should consider gastric phytobezoars in the differential diagnosis of anorexia and weight loss.
- Early identification and management of phytobezoars may help mitigate malnutrition and improve outcomes in uremic patients.