Persimmon phytobezoars occur in Asia and other regions where eating persimmons is popular.
Persimmons contain tannin and shibuol, which react with gastric acid to form a coagulum that can trap cellulose, protein and plant debris.
These bezoars have a hard consistency and can be hard to dissolve.
A variety of solutions can be used to attempt dissolution of the bezoar, including Coca-Cola and meat tenderizer. Sometimes endoscopy is needed to break up the bezoar, followed by use of a dissolution solution. Large, obstructing or persistent bezoars may require surgical removal.
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