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Published on: September 11, 2018
Pediatric case of trichobezoar leading to gastric perforation
Rahaf Almoallim1, Nadia Safa2, Arbaaz Patel1
1Department of Medical Imaging, McMaster University, 1200 Main St W, Hamilton, ON L8N 3Z5, Canada.
Abstract:
Trichobezoars, or hairballs, are rare gastrointestinal masses often associated with psychiatric disorders like trichotillomania and trichophagia. Mostly seen among young females, they can cause severe gastrointestinal complications, including gastric ulceration and, subsequently, perforation. We reported a case of a young female with abdominal pain and vomiting diagnosed with a perforated gastric ulcer secondary to a bezoar. After emergency surgery and postoperative care, psychiatric evaluation confirmed trichotillomania with trichophagia which ultimately aided in the development of a comprehensive care plan. This case underscores the importance of considering trichobezoars in similar cases and highlights the role of emergent care.
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