Lactobezoar in prematurity. A case with prolonged resolution

Lactobezoar is a foreign body produced in the gastrointestinal tract by the presence and accumulation of undigested milk curds. It is seen most commonly in low-birth-weight, premature infants fed with 24-calorie formulas. Conventional therapy includes withholding feedings, repeated gastric lavage, and maintenance of nutrition and hydration by the parenteral route. Most cases respond to this regimen within 48 to 72 hours. We present a case of gastric lactobezoar in a premature, small for gestational age infant who was fed a 24-calorie formula but failed to respond to conventional therapy for more than a week. Historical background and pathophysiology of lactobezoar are discussed.