Colonic Obstruction Secondary to Phytobezoar Caused by Vitex Agnus-Castus Seeds: A Case Report

Abstract

Plant seeds of Vitex agnus-castus (chaste berry) are known for benefits in reproductive health and also reduce bloating, depression, headache, and constipation. Plant seeds are a rare cause of phytobezoars. Bezoar is a formation of mass by piling up of material that is ingested but not digested or partially digested at any level of the gastrointestinal tract. While swallowed material mostly forms a bezoar in the stomach, it can rarely reach the colon and cause obstruction or perforation. Bezoars causing colonic obstruction can be treated by medical observation, endoscopic intervention, or surgical procedure. Herein, we present a case of colonic obstruction secondary to bezoar composed of plant seeds of Vitex agnus-castus and our approach to this condition. Key Words: Chaste berry, Vitex agnus-castus, Phytobezoar, Colonic obstruction.