Bezoar-induced ulceration and perforation of the upper gastrointestinal tract in mentally retarded patients

Symptoms of bezoars are often nonspecific and may mimic those of other gastrointestinal diseases. Therefore, this diagnosis should be kept in mind to avoid severe complications such as bleeding, perforation, or obstruction, especially when treating mentally retarded or psychiatric patients. We describe two young, mentally handicapped patients with perforation of the gut due to bezoars. The pathophysiology of this complication is discussed and the literature reviewed.