Calcific enterolith obstruction of the intestine

Abstract

A case of acute intestinal obstruction in a woman aged 67 years, due to calcific enterolith obstruction, is presented. Enteroliths are defined; they are of endogenous origin and most usually formed from the bile constituents. However, when calcium salts predominate (calcine enterolith), they form in the distal small bowel. It is suggested that stasis is the most important factor in their production as they are most commonly associated with an intestinal stricture. The clinical features of calcific enteroliths are reviwed.