Management of trichobezoar: About 6 cases

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Gastroenterology
• Psychiatry

Background:

• Trichobezoar is a rare condition involving ingested hair accumulation in the digestive tract.
• It predominantly affects children and young females, often associated with psychological disorders.
• Complications can be severe if left untreated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the clinical data of pediatric patients treated for trichobezoar.
• To evaluate diagnostic methods and treatment outcomes for trichobezoar.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of six pediatric patients treated between 2004 and 2019.
• Diagnostic tools included imaging (CT, gastroduodenal opacification) and endoscopy.
• Surgical intervention (gastrotomy) was the primary treatment approach.

Main Results:

• The study included six girls aged 4-12 years with symptoms like epigastric pain and vomiting.
• Trichobezoars were confined to the stomach in four cases and extended into the jejunum in two.
• All patients underwent surgery, with successful extraction of the bezoar; psychiatric follow-up was initiated.
• No recurrences were observed post-treatment.

Conclusions:

• Open surgery remains a critical management strategy for pediatric trichobezoar.
• Post-treatment psychiatric consultation is imperative for preventing recurrence and enhancing long-term prognosis.