A rare case of Rapunzel syndrome with multiple small bowel intussusceptions and bowel obstruction

Abstract

Rapunzel syndrome is a rare condition that is characterized by a gastric trichobezoar with a long tail extending from the stomach to the small bowel. Patients can be asymptomatic for a long period, and symptoms develop later when the bezoar enlarges in size. The most common presentations include chronic abdominal pain, malabsorption, gastrointestinal tract obstruction, gastrointestinal bleeding, and intussusceptions. We report a case of a 5-year-old girl with Rapunzel syndrome causing multiple small bowel intussusceptions. We were unable to identify the main cause of this condition during laparoscopic reduction. Definite diagnosis was made after the development of gastrointestinal tract obstruction. Surgeons should consider the possibility of Rapunzel syndrome when diagnosing the main cause of intussusceptions.