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Updated: May 18, 2026

A Mouse Model of Intestinal Partial Obstruction
Published on: March 5, 2018
Delayed presentation of trichobezoar with small bowel obstruction
Naima Zamir1, Jamshed Akhtar, Soofia Ahmed
1Department of Pediatric Surgery, National Institute of Child Health Karachi, Pakistan.
A rare case of small bowel obstruction in a child was caused by a trichobezoar, a mass of ingested hair. Surgical removal of the hair mass led to an uneventful recovery, highlighting a rare but treatable cause of intestinal obstruction.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Small bowel obstruction is a frequent surgical emergency.
- Trichobezoars are rare causes of intestinal obstruction, particularly in children.
- Rapunzel syndrome, a specific type of trichobezoar extending into the colon, is exceptionally rare.
Observation:
- A 7-year-old female presented with symptoms of acute intestinal obstruction.
- A palpable, mobile abdominal mass was detected.
- Surgical exploration revealed a 10 cm trichobezoar in the distal ileum.
Findings:
- The trichobezoar was successfully removed via enterotomy.
- The patient experienced an uncomplicated postoperative recovery.
- A history of trichophagia (hair eating) was identified, starting at age 2 and lasting 18 months, leading to alopecia.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering trichobezoars in the differential diagnosis of pediatric intestinal obstruction.
- Early identification and surgical intervention are crucial for favorable outcomes.
- Understanding the behavioral etiology (trichophagia) is key to preventing recurrence.
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