RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Management of a trichobezoar caused by consumption of artificial hair extensions
JF BMJ Case Reports
JO BMJ Case Reports
FD BMJ Publishing Group Ltd
SP e232720
DO 10.1136/bcr-2019-232720
VO 13
IS 1
A1 Ria Emma Smith
A1 Jaideep Singh Rait
A1 Amira Said
A1 Shwetal Dighe
YR 2020
UL http://casereports.bmj.com/content/13/1/e232720.abstract
AB Trichobezoars are rare, but most commonly found in young women with trichophagia and trichotillomania. Complications can include iron deficiency anaemia and gastric erosion or, rarely, perforation. A 19-year-old woman presented with epigastric pain, vomiting and lethargy. Initial investigations revealed a palpable abdominal fullness on examination and iron deficiency anaemia. Oesophagogastroduodenoscopy found a large trichobezoar associated with gastric erosions, polyps and an ulcer. Subsequently, the patient reported previous consumption of artificial hair extensions, which ceased 5 years previously. Attempts to remove the trichobezoar by endoscopy were ineffective and in line with current literature, laparotomy was successful. This case describes a rare cause of trichobezoar and emphasises the importance of appropriate initial investigations and definitive management.