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[Five cases of trichobezoars in children]
1Service de pédiatrie, hôpital Nord, CHU Saint-Etienne, 42055 de Saint-Etienne cedex 02, France.
Summary
Trichobezoars, or hairballs, are dangerous digestive concretions. Surgical removal is the only effective treatment, alongside mandatory psychological support for patients.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Psychiatry
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Trichobezoars are indigestible masses of hair and food, often linked to trichotillomania and psychological distress.
- Diagnosis can be incidental, found during investigations for anemia or reflux, presenting as an epigastric mass.
Observation:
- The Rapunzel syndrome, a rare form of trichobezoar, caused small bowel perforations and necrosis in one case.
- Four other cases presented as intragastric bezoars, readily diagnosed via ultrasound.
Findings:
- Surgical intervention is the sole effective treatment for trichobezoars.
- Nonsurgical methods like papain digestion or endoscopic extraction are not viable.
Implications:
- Early recognition of trichobezoars is crucial due to their potential for severe complications.
- Integrated treatment involving surgery and psychological support is essential for patient recovery.