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Review
. 2010 May;26(5):457-63.
doi: 10.1007/s00383-010-2570-0. Epub 2010 Mar 6.

Management of trichobezoar: case report and literature review

R R Gorter  1 , C M F Kneepkens, E C J L Mattens, D C Aronson, H A Heij
Affiliations
Review

Management of trichobezoar: case report and literature review

R R Gorter et al. Pediatr Surg Int. 2010 May.

Abstract

Trichobezoars (hair ball) are usually located in the stomach, but may extend through the pylorus into the duodenum and small bowel (Rapunzel syndrome). They are almost always associated with trichotillomania and trichophagia or other psychiatric disorders. In the literature several treatment options are proposed, including removal by conventional laparotomy, laparoscopy and endoscopy. We present our experience with four patients and provide a review of the recent literature. According to our experience and in line with the published results, conventional laparotomy is still the treatment of choice. In addition, psychiatric consultation is necessary to prevent relapses.

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Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Rapunzel syndrome (patient #1)
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Rapunzel syndrome: after removal: the cast of the stomach with the tail located in the jejunum (patient #1)
Fig. 3
Fig. 3
MRI (transversal view) in case #4: symptoms and signs (upper abdominal mass, confirmed with ultrasound) were interpreted as suggestive of a malignant process. MRI revealed the presence of an intraluminal mass in the stomach
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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