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Updated: May 25, 2026
07:33
A Mouse Model of Intestinal Partial Obstruction
Published on: March 5, 2018
Huge simultaneous trichobezoars causing gastric and small-bowel obstruction
Fariborz Mansour-Ghanaei1, Mohammadrasoul Herfatkar, Massih Sedigh-Rahimabadi
1Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases Research Center (GLDRC), Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran.
Summary
This case report details a rare instance of Rapunzel syndrome in a young girl with trichobezoars. Endoscopy confirmed a large gastric trichobezoar causing partial obstruction.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Pathology
Background:
- Bezoars are indigestible masses in the gastrointestinal tract, with types including phyto-, lacto-, and trichobezoars.
- While bezoars are common, multiple giant bezoars causing gastric and intestinal obstruction (Rapunzel syndrome) are exceptionally rare.
Observation:
- A young girl presented with symptoms of partial gastric and intestinal obstruction.
- Her medical history revealed long-standing trichophagia (hair-eating).
- Physical examination was largely unremarkable, with abdominal radiography showing gastric distension and air-fluid levels.
Findings:
- Endoscopic examination definitively diagnosed a massive gastric trichobezoar.
- The trichobezoar was large enough to fill the stomach lumen and extend into the small intestine.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential for trichobezoars, even in seemingly healthy individuals, to cause severe gastrointestinal obstruction.
- Early recognition of trichophagia and prompt endoscopic evaluation are crucial for managing such rare but serious conditions.
- Understanding the pathogenesis of bezoars is vital for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies.
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