TRICHOPHAGIA CAUSING GASTROINTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

Objective: Trichobezoar consists of a compact mass of hair occupying the gastrointestinal lumen to a various extent. Sometimes trichobezoar extends past the duodenum, it is referred to as Rapunzel Syndrome. Although trichobezoars are well described in terms of surgical diagnostic and procedure, usually associated with trichotillomania.

Methods: Presentation of psychiatric and physical signs and symptoms concerning the case report

Results: Report of a 7-year-old female patient with a trichobezoar submitted to surgical removal.

Conclusions: A trichobezoar represents a serious surgical condition. It is important to consider such diagnosis in face of suggestive symptoms, even if signs of trichotillomania  are not present. Such issues may also be important in the study of obsessive-compulsive disorder.