Trichobezoar: presenting as primary Intestinal obstruction

Abstract

ABSTRACTRapunzel syndrome is a rare type of trichobezoar with an extension of the hair into the small bowel. Clinical presentation is deceptive and vague ranging from abdominal mass to gastrointestinal symptoms.Bezoars are usually confined to the stomach which is seen in individuals with psychiatric illness, like trichotillomania, trichophagia and gastric dysmotility. Long standing bezoars may extend into the small intestine leading to a condition known as Rapunzel syndrome. Trichobezoars presenting primarily as intestinal obstruction is very rare. Diagnosis can be established by endoscopy, ultrasonography and computed tomography scan. Treatment includes improvement of general condition and removal of bezoar by laparoscopic approach or laparotomy. Psychiatric consultation is necessary to treat and prevent relapse. We present the case of a 6 years old girl, where the trichobezoar was not suspected at all, especially with negative history of trichophagia and trichotillomania. This girl presented with history of intermittent pain abdomen since 3 months and recent onset severe pain abdomen with abdominal distension and vomiting. Skiagram of abdomen revealed dilated small bowel loops with multiple air fluid levels suggestive of intestinal obstruction. Even ultrasonogram of abdomen was also inconclusive for cause of obstruction. At laparotomy, dilated small bowel loops with multiple interbowel adhesions were seen. A hard mass measuring 5 × 6 cm was seen at distal jejunum causing distal obstruction with pressure necrosis over bowel wall. Enterotomy was done which revealed trichobezoar which was removeden masse. Resection and anastomosis of necrosed jejunum was done. Patient recovered completely after the procedure.How to cite this articleMadhushankar KC, Manjunath K, Saiprasad B, Saishayam M. Trichobezoar: Presenting as Primary Intestinal Obstruction. J Med Sci 2015;1(1):4-6.