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[Gastric trichobezoar: a case report (author's transl)]
La Pediatria Medica E Chirurgica : Medical and Surgical Pediatrics
|September 1, 1981
Summary
A rare case of a massive trichobezoar, a hairball, was surgically removed from an 11-year-old girl experiencing abdominal pain. This condition resulted from a prolonged habit of trichophagia, or hair eating.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Gastroenterology
- Medical Case Reports
Background:
- Trichobezoars are rare gastric foreign bodies, often associated with psychiatric conditions or developmental disorders.
- Delayed diagnosis can lead to significant complications, including obstruction and malnutrition.
Observation:
- An 11-year-old girl presented with a year-long history of abdominal pain, halitosis, and exhaustion.
- Imaging and endoscopy revealed a large trichobezoar occupying a significant portion of the upper gastrointestinal tract.
Findings:
- Surgical removal of the massive trichobezoar was successfully performed.
- Detailed patient history identified trichophagia (compulsive hair eating) as the underlying cause.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering trichobezoars in pediatric patients with unexplained abdominal symptoms.
- Early recognition and intervention are crucial to prevent severe gastrointestinal complications.
- Psychological evaluation and management are essential for addressing the root cause of trichophagia.