![]() In humans, the first bezoar was described in 1779 in a deceased patient with gastric perforation and peritonitis ( 3). The word “bezoar” originates from the Arabic word “bedzehr” or the Persian “padzhar,” which means “protecting against a poison,” since historically, bezoars from animal guts were useful as antidotes to poisons and, nowadays, as part of traditional Chinese medicine ( 1, 2). Although rare, Rapunzel syndrome must never be forgotten as a differential diagnosis for digestive symptoms since its early detection hinders the occurrence of further complications. The giant trichobezoar of 511 g, measuring 17 × 7 × 6.5 cm with a tail of approximately 3 cm, was successfully removed through laparotomy. ![]() The upper digestive endoscopy revealed a mass formed by hair, mucus, and food occupying the gastric cavity with the extension into the duodenum confirming the diagnosis of Rapunzel syndrome. The abdominal ultrasound showed a gastric intraluminal mass with a superior hyperechoic arc. ![]() The clinical exam pointed out diffuse alopecia, a palpable mass in the epigastric area, and abdominal tenderness at palpation, the patient weighing 32 kg. We report the case of a 13-year-old girl admitted in our clinic for abdominal pain, anorexia, and weight loss. The delays in diagnosis are common since in its early stages, it is usually asymptomatic. Rapunzel syndrome is an extremely rare condition seen in adolescents or young females with psychiatric disorders consisting of a gastric trichobezoar with an extension within the small bowel.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |