An Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy Analysis of Elemental Changes of a Persimmon Phytobezoar Dissolved in Coca-Cola

Intern Med. 2016;55(18):2611-5. doi: 10.2169/internalmedicine.55.6985. Epub 2016 Sep 15.

Abstract

To investigate the mechanism of phytobezoar dissolution by Coca-Cola(®), persimmon phytobezoar pieces removed from a 60-year-old Japanese woman were analyzed by energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The amount of calcium significantly decreased after dissolution treatment using Coca-Cola(®), suggesting a potential contribution of calcium to dissolution mechanisms. Moreover, immersion in Coca-Cola(®) for 120 hours on the exterior surface revealed that Coca-Cola(®) did not permeate persimmon phytobezoars. This is the first study to investigate the mechanisms of persimmon phytobezoar permeability and dissolution induced by Coca-Cola(®).

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Bezoars / complications*
  • Bezoars / therapy
  • Carbonated Beverages*
  • Cola
  • Diospyros*
  • Female
  • Gastrointestinal Diseases / therapy
  • Humans
  • Intestinal Obstruction / etiology*
  • Middle Aged
  • Spectrometry, X-Ray Emission