Rapunzel syndrome, a rare hairy tale: a case report

Abstract

Rapunzel syndrome is a rare condition that typically occurs in young females with trichotillomania or trichophagia. The name “Rapunzel” was given due to the presence of trichobezoars extending from the stomach down to various parts of the gastrointestinal tract. In this case, we discuss a 6-year-old female patient with a large trichobezoar that was further complicated by the occurrence of gastric perforation. This case emphasizes not only the presentation of a rare pathology with a rare complication but also the importance of meticulous history taking and physical examination for the approach to an acute abdominal emergency in the pediatric emergency setting.

Keywords

• abdomen, acute
• abdominal pain
• bezoars
• intestinal perforation
• trichotillomania