Gastric impaction and obstruction of the small intestine associated with persimmon phytobezoar in a horse

J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2000 Apr 15;216(8):1279-81. doi: 10.2460/javma.2000.216.1279.

Abstract

Signs of mild colic, intermittent lethargy, and weight loss of 6 weeks' duration in a 2-year-old Quarter Horse gelding were attributed to persimmon (Diospyros virginiana) phytobezoar formation. Diagnosis of the phytobezoar was facilitated by gastric endoscopy. Signs of gastrointestinal tract obstruction were associated with a large phytobezoar in the lumen of the stomach, gastric ulceration, and obstruction of the small intestine (as a consequence of fragmentation of the primary bezoar). Conservative treatment, using mineral oil and dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate, was unsuccessful. A celiotomy was performed, and gastric impaction and partial obstruction of the small intestine associated with phytobezoar formation and fragmentation were identified. The horse made a complete recovery following removal of all phytobezoars. Persimmon phytobezoar should be considered in the fall and winter as a possible cause of lethargy, colic, and weight loss in horses allowed access to persimmon fruit.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Bezoars / complications
  • Bezoars / diagnosis
  • Bezoars / veterinary*
  • Colic / etiology
  • Colic / veterinary*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Duodenum
  • Fruit
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux / etiology
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux / veterinary
  • Gastroscopy / veterinary
  • Horse Diseases / etiology*
  • Horses
  • Intestinal Obstruction / etiology
  • Intestinal Obstruction / veterinary*
  • Jejunum
  • Male
  • Stomach Ulcer / etiology
  • Stomach Ulcer / veterinary
  • Stomach*