Hair Thread Tourniquet Syndrome in Adolescents: A Presentation and Review of the Literature

Abstract

Hair thread tourniquet syndrome has been recognized since the 1600s when a strangulating hair was reported around the glans penis. Since that time sporadic reports have appeared in the literature describing strangulation of appendages by human hair. Most often the constriction involves fingers, toes, or the penis. There are several reports of clitoral strangulation. Most cases present to their primary care provider or emergency department. A high index of suspicion is required for diagnosis in order to prevent prolonged devascularization. We describe a hair thread tourniquet syndrome of the labia minora in a 13-year-old. It was successfully treated with exam under anesthesia and resection of the devascularized tissue. We believe this is the oldest patient described as well as the only description of hair tourniquet syndrome of the labia minora. Prompt recognition of this unusual condition is essential for treatment of this potentially serious problem.