An unusual cause of small bowel obstruction due to an ingested mango seed: a case report

Abstract

Abstract Background Intestinal obstruction can occur due to multiple aetiologies. Intestinal obstruction due to phytobezoar have been reported. However, intestinal obstruction due to a mango seed has not been reported. Therefore, accidental ingestion of a mango seed is rare, and for an ingested mango seed to cause intestinal obstruction is rarer. Case presentation This case report is of a male who accidentally ingested a mango seed and presented with intestinal obstruction. The obstruction was at the terminal ileum. It required laparotomy for retrieval. Conclusion It is extremely rare for a mango seed to cause intestinal obstruction. Hence, diagnosis requires a high degree of clinical suspicion. Instead of laparotomy, studies have demonstrated the use of laparoscopy for removal of ingested seeds.

Keywords

• Intestinal obstruction
• Laparotomy
• Mango seed