Recurrent trichobezoar due to trichophagia: a case report

Abstract

Objective: Trichobezoar, a hair ball in the gastrointestinal tract, is usually the result of the urge to pull out one's own hair (trichotillomania) and swallow it (trichophagia). It is almost exclusively seen in young females and may cause serious medical complications. This case report will describe an adult female patient with recurrent trichobezoars.

Method: Data for this case report was collected from peer-reviewed literature and treatment encounters by the consultation-liaison psychiatry unit; subsequent to obtaining informed consent.

Results: The personality characteristics, familial structure and domestic stress found in this case mirror the literature. We initiated behavioral interventions including habit reversal training and patient education in combination with pharmacologic therapy with clomipramine.

Conclusion: Left untreated, trichophagia can cause a life-threatening emergency, requiring surgery. Recurrence of tichobezoars can be anticipated when the underlying emotional disorder is not addressed using multimodal management including psychiatric evaluation and treatment combined with surgical procedures.