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Gastro-intestinal phytobezoars in Zimbabwean Africans
Summary
African patients developed gastro-intestinal phytobezoars, likely from consuming fruit of local Diospyros trees. These cases resemble those caused by persimmon bezoars, suggesting a common etiology.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Toxicology
- Ethnobotany
Background:
- Phytobezoars are indigestible concretions found in the gastrointestinal tract.
- Persimmon (Diospyros kaki) is a known cause of phytobezoars.
- Limited data exists on phytobezoars caused by other species within the Diospyros genus.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the clinical presentation of gastro-intestinal phytobezoars in African patients.
- To investigate the potential role of local Diospyros fruit in phytobezoar formation.
- To compare clinical features with previously reported persimmon bezoars.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case series of 10 African patients diagnosed with gastro-intestinal phytobezoars.
- Clinical data including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment were analyzed.
- Etiological factors were investigated, focusing on dietary habits and local flora.
Main Results:
- Ten cases of gastro-intestinal phytobezoars were identified in African patients.
- Clinical manifestations were consistent with those previously reported for persimmon bezoars.
- Consumption of fruit from locally prevalent Diospyros trees was identified as a likely causative factor.
Conclusions:
- Local Diospyros fruit represent a significant cause of gastro-intestinal phytobezoars in this African cohort.
- Clinical features are similar to persimmon bezoars, supporting the genus-specific etiology.
- Awareness of local fruit as a potential cause is crucial for diagnosis and prevention.