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[Trichobezoars in children and adolescents]
A Dumonceaux1, L Michaud, M Bonnevalle
1Unité de gastroentérologie, hépatologie et nutrition, hôpital Jeanne-de-Flandre, Lille, France.
Summary
Trichobezoars, masses of hair, can occur in children with digestive issues. Surgical removal is often necessary as other methods may fail or pose risks.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Surgical Case Reports
Background:
- Trichobezoars are hair or fiber masses.
- Typically seen in adolescent girls with mental disturbances.
- Digestive antecedents may predispose individuals to bezoar formation.
Observation:
- Three pediatric cases of trichobezoars were analyzed.
- Two patients had significant digestive histories including surgery.
- One patient had a history of mental retardation.
Findings:
- Enzymatic dissolution was ineffective for large bezoars.
- Gastroscopic removal led to esophageal perforation in one case.
- Surgical intervention was ultimately required for all cases.
Implications:
- Bezoars should be considered in children with chronic digestive symptoms and relevant history.
- Enzymatic and endoscopic treatments have limitations and risks.
- Surgical removal is often the indicated treatment for pediatric trichobezoars.
- Psychiatric support is crucial for prevention and recurrence reduction.