Rapunzel syndrome: the unsuspected culprit
Mohammad Ezzedien Rabie1, Abdul Rahman Arishi, Ashraf Khan
1Faculty of Medicine, Jazan University, Jazan, PO Box 114, Saudi Arabia. ezzedien@hotmail.com
World Journal of Gastroenterology
|February 21, 2008
Summary
Rapunzel syndrome, a rare disorder of hair accumulation, presents unique challenges. This report details two new cases, including a pregnant patient with rare complications, emphasizing the need for high diagnostic suspicion.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Pathology
- Medical Case Reports
Background:
- Trichobezoars are rare gastric foreign bodies formed from ingested hair.
- Rapunzel syndrome, a variant, involves bezoars extending into the small intestine.
- This syndrome is exceptionally rare, with limited documented cases.
Observation:
- Two new cases of Rapunzel syndrome were identified within a three-month period.
- One case involved a pregnant patient presenting with small bowel intussusception and perforation.
- This combination of pregnancy, Rapunzel syndrome, intussusception, and perforation is exceptionally rare.
Findings:
- The study adds two cases to the limited literature on Rapunzel syndrome.
- Highlights the potential for severe gastrointestinal complications, such as intussusception and perforation.
- Emphasizes the diagnostic challenge posed by this rare condition.
Implications:
- Increased awareness and a high index of suspicion are crucial for timely diagnosis of Rapunzel syndrome.
- Early diagnosis and intervention can prevent life-threatening complications.
- Further research may elucidate risk factors and optimal management strategies for this rare disorder.
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