A case of gastric trichobezoar causing psychiatric problems

Abstract

= Abstract = Trichobezoar is characterized by the accumulation of hair in the gastrointestinal tract and usually occurs in those who have trichotillomania, other psychiatric disorders, or neurologic problems. Trichobezoar typically presents as gastric obstruction, including abdominal pain, vomiting, anorexia, and weight loss. A 9-year-old girl visited our clinic with the complaint of abdominal discomfort and vomiting. A review of her medical history revealed that she had trichophagia since the age of 5, and she felt that her parents had been strict with her. She underwent gastrotomy, during which a large trichobezoar was removed. This case highlights the importance of psychiatric and comprehensive approaches in patients with trichobezoar. (Korean J Pediatr 2009;52:1167-1170) The most common presenting symptoms of trichobezoar include palpable abdominal mass, vomiting and noticeable hair loss. The methods in the history taking, which revealed a possibility of the trichotillomania and trichobezoar by looking into a sense of the uneasiness and the relationship between their parents, or brothers, and sisters, will be greatly required to the patients those who suffer abdo- minal pain and psychopathic disease. Furthermore, if a patient presents with gastointestinal symptoms, abdominal palpation must be performed during physical examination. Five to 18% of the patients with trichotillomania ingest