Barolith

Last revised by Daniel J Bell on 10 Aug 2020

A barolith consists of inspissated barium sulfate associated with feces seen rarely, after barium studies for imaging the gastrointestinal tract. Since barium sulfate is insoluble, it can in rare cases precipitate in the bowel, sometimes becoming symptomatic with a significant delay (from few weeks to up to 2 years) in presentation after the radiologic study 3

Depending on its location in the gastrointestinal system, it may cause colonic obstruction, intussusceptionvolvulus, ulceration, perforation or even appendicitis 1-3.

  • advanced age
  • dehydration / electrolyte imbalances
  • colonic luminal narrowing
  • impaired colonic motility (due to drugs or systemic diseases) 

Conservative management relies on the use of laxatives, however surgery is commonly necessitated. Endoscopic dissolution can offer an alternative, minimally invasive approach for patients when conservative therapy proves to be futile, or when surgery is considered high-risk or contraindicated 1,2

Symptomatic barolith formation is a potentially serious complication often warranting invasive, surgical management. Thus, efforts must be focused on preventing it by advising patients that after a barium study they drink ample amount of fluids, eat lots of fruit, vegetables, and fiber, use laxatives, and report to their physician if the cessation of bowel movements occurs after a barium contrast study 3

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