From Habit to Hazard: Areca Nut Consumption Leading to Gastric Outlet Obstruction

Ijan Dhamala, Palak Garg, Ashish Mishra, Manish Kulshrestha, Afsar Ali, R. S. Prafulla

Abstract: Bezoars are uncommon masses formed in the gastrointestinal tract, often categorized into pharmacobezoars, lactobezoars, trichobezoars, lithobezoars, and phytobezoars based on their composition. This report details a rare case of a 23-year-old male presenting with recurrent vomiting, abdominal pain, and a palpable lump caused by an areca nut bezoar, leading to gastric outlet obstruction. Despite initial diagnostic challenges and failed endoscopic removal, surgical intervention successfully extracted a 15 x 8 cm mass. Histopathological examination confirmed the bezoar?s composition, attributed to prolonged areca nut consumption and inadequate hydration. This case underscores the importance of thorough clinical evaluation, advanced imaging, and tailored intervention strategies in managing large bezoars, particularly those linked to dietary habits

Keywords: bezoar, gastric outlet obstruction, areca nut, gastrointestinal mass, surgical removal