Lactobezoar – a rare cause of intestinal obstruction in a preterm newborn
Authors:
M. Tešľová 1; M. Šudák 2; M. Vasilová 3; V. Chovanová 1
Authors‘ workplace:
Oddelenie neonatologickej intenzívnej medicíny, Detská fakultná nemocnica Košice
1; Oddelenie detskej chirurgie, Detská fakultná nemocnica Košice
2; Novorodenecké oddelenie, Nemocnica Penta Hospitals Humenné
3
Published in:
Čes-slov Neonat 2026; 32 (1): 63-67.
Category:
Case Reports
Overview
Lactobezoars are rare forms of bezoars composed of undigested milk components and mucus, which may occur in premature neonates with reduced intestinal motility and an immature digestive tract. Although they are most commonly located in the stomach, they can also form in the intestines, where they represent an uncommon but serious cause of intestinal obstruction with a risk of perforation. The clinical presentation is often nonspecific and may mimic necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), making early diagnosis challenging. Diagnosis relies on a combination of imaging modalities, although in some cases it is established intraoperatively. Management depends on the location and severity – conservative treatment is typically effective for gastric lactobezoars, whereas intestinal forms often require surgical intervention. The described case of a premature neonate with an ileal lactobezoar illustrates the rapid progression of symptoms and the necessity of surgical treatment. Postoperative recovery was uneventful. This case highlights the importance of including lactobezoar in the differential diagnosis of neonatal gastrointestinal obstruction.
Keywords:
Preterm birth – newborn – parenteral nutrition – intestinal obstruction – lactobezoar – surgical revision
Sources
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Labels
Neonatology Neonatal NurseArticle was published in
Czech and Slovak Neonatology
2026 Issue 1
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