Trichobezoar

Trichobezoar is a type of bezoar, or mass found trapped in the gastrointestinal tract, that is composed of hair. The term originates from the Greek words "trich" meaning hair, and "bezoar" meaning mass. Trichobezoars are often associated with trichotillomania (hair-pulling disorder) and trichophagia (compulsion to eat hair), conditions often seen in psychiatric patients.

Causes

Trichobezoars are caused by the ingestion of hair. This can occur in individuals with trichotillomania and trichophagia, where the person has a compulsion to pull out their own hair and ingest it. This can also occur in animals, particularly in cats who ingest their own fur during grooming.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a trichobezoar can vary depending on the size and location of the mass. Common symptoms can include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, weight loss, and a palpable mass in the abdomen. In severe cases, a trichobezoar can cause a blockage in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to severe abdominal pain and vomiting.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a trichobezoar is often made through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging studies. An abdominal ultrasound or CT scan can often detect the presence of a mass in the gastrointestinal tract. In some cases, an endoscopy may be performed to directly visualize the trichobezoar.

Treatment

Treatment of a trichobezoar involves removal of the mass. This can often be accomplished through endoscopy, where a long, flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the mouth and into the gastrointestinal tract. In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove the trichobezoar. In addition to removal of the trichobezoar, treatment of the underlying psychiatric conditions is also important to prevent recurrence.

See also

• Bezoar
• Trichotillomania
• Trichophagia

Trichobezoar Resources
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