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The Rapunzel syndrome (trichobezoar) causing atypical intussusception in a child: a case report
G B Dalshaug1, S Wainer, G L Hollaar
1Department of Surgery, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
Insights
Rapunzel syndrome, a rare cause of gastrointestinal obstruction, involves a bezoar extending beyond the ileocecal valve. This report details the eleventh documented case in a young girl, reviewing the condition
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Pediatric Surgery
Background:
- The Rapunzel syndrome is a rare condition characterized by a trichobezoar with an elongated tail extending into the small intestine.
- It can lead to significant gastrointestinal obstruction, posing a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge.
Observation:
- A case of Rapunzel syndrome in a 7-year-old girl is presented.
- This represents the eleventh reported instance of this rare syndrome in the medical literature.
Findings:
- The patient presented with symptoms indicative of gastrointestinal obstruction.
- Diagnostic evaluation confirmed the presence of a large trichobezoar extending to the ileocecal valve.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering Rapunzel syndrome in pediatric patients with unexplained gastrointestinal obstruction.
- A comprehensive review of the syndrome's epidemiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, complications, and treatment is provided.
- Early recognition and surgical intervention are crucial for managing this rare but potentially serious condition.
Abstract:
The Rapunzel syndrome (trichobezoar) occurs when gastrointestinal obstruction is produced by a rare manifestation of a trichobezoar with a long tail that extends to or beyond the ileocecal valve. A case history of a 7-year-old girl is described. This is the eleventh patient with Rapunzel syndrome reported in the literature. The epidemiology, clinical features, diagnosis, complications, treatment, and literature are reviewed briefly.