Gastric and enteric phytobezoars caused by ingestion of persimmon in equids.

The research paper investigates the impact of ingesting persimmons on equids (horses, donkeys, ponies), specifically looking at how it leads to the development of phytobezoars (accumulations of indigestible plant material) in their stomachs and intestines.

Clinical Study

• The participants of the study comprised of thirteen equids (10 horses, 2 donkeys, and a pony).
• These animals were observed for signs of colic, weight loss, anorexia, and diarrhea, conditions that often indicate gastrointestinal complications.
• Of these thirteen, ten were studied in autumn (September to November), and seven had known history of persimmon ingestion.

Clinical Findings

• All of the thirteen equids were diagnosed with phytobezoars caused by consuming persimmons.
• The phytobezoars were located in the gastric area in eight cases and within the enteric region in five cases.
• Through the procedures of gastroscopy or gastroduodenoscopy, researchers were able to identify signs of persimmon ingestion in eight out of ten animals that underwent the process.

Treatment and Outcomes

• Two animals of the initial thirteen were euthanized prior to any kind of treatment.
• The remaining eleven were subject to various supportive care measures, such as administration of IV fluids, antimicrobials, NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs), and gastric acid suppressors.
• Specific treatments for the persimmon phytobezoars included modifying the diet to a pelleted feed, oral or nasogastric administration of cola/diet cola, cellulase, or mineral oil, surgical interventions, and intrapersimmon phytobezoar injections with acetylcysteine.
• Medical treatment resulted in the dissolution of gastric phytobezoars in five from the seven equids that were holding them.
• In terms of survival post-hospital discharge, seven of the eight equids with gastric phytobezoars and one of the five with enteric phytobezoars lived for over a year.

Implications and Clinical Relevance

• Given the association between persimmon ingestion and phytobezoars in these equids, this study underscores the importance of conducting a gastroduodenoscopy on equids showing gastrointestinal disease and a history of persimmon intake.
• Furthermore, the encouraging results from the medical management—including the use of cola or diet cola and a switch to a pelleted feed—suggest that these can be useful methods for treating and dissolving gastric persimmon phytobezoars in equids.