Rapunzel Syndrome in A 13-Year-Old Girl with Abdominal Pain Presenting to The Pediatric Emergency Department: A Case Report

Abstract

Trichobezoar is a rare form of bezoar characterized by the accumulation of swallowed hair in the stomach. An unusual form of bezoar, in which the bezoar spreads from the stomach to the small intestine or beyond, is called Rapunzel syndrome. This syndrome is mainly seen in females and is often associated with psychiatric disorders. Trichobezoar usually presents with abdominal pain, early satiety, and nausea. However, it may also present as an asymptomatic abdominal mass or obstruction and pe rforation of the gastrointestinal tract. This diagnosis should be considered in young women with abdominal pain, an epigastric mass, and malnutrition, especially in patients with a history of trichophagy or psychiatric disorder. The case of a 13-year-old girl with Rapunzel syndrome is described. She presented to the emergency ward with a history of abdominal pain, non-bilious vomiting after meal and fluid intake, halitosis, decreased appetite, and weight loss. The patient was treated successfully by laparotomy.