Rare Case of Rapunzel Syndrome in a 4-Year-Old Girl
Author Information
Author(s): Milan Pokhrel, Kundan Kumar Yadav, Rabi Khadka, Rupesh Verma, Dinesh Koirala, Geha Raj Dahal
Primary Institution: Maharajgunj Medical Campus, Institute of Medicine, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal
Hypothesis
Rapunzel syndrome can occur in young children with psychiatric conditions like trichotillomania and pica.
Conclusion
Rapunzel syndrome is a rare cause of intestinal obstruction in children, particularly those with trichotillomania and pica.
Supporting Evidence
- The patient presented with abdominal pain, vomiting, and a lump in the abdomen.
- CT scan revealed a distended stomach with contents suggesting bezoars.
- Surgical intervention was performed to remove the bezoars.
Takeaway
A 4-year-old girl had a big ball of hair in her stomach because she couldn't stop pulling her hair and eating it, which made her sick.
Methodology
The case was diagnosed through clinical examination and CT scan, followed by surgical intervention to remove the bezoars.
Limitations
The patient did not attend follow-up psychiatric evaluations, which may affect long-term outcomes.
Participant Demographics
4-year-old female with a history of trichotillomania and pica.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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