Case Report

Large Gastric Trichobezoar in a Normal Healthy Woman: Case Report and Review of Pertinent Literature

Authors: Rachel Coulter, MBBS, Martin Thomas Antony, MBBS, FRCS, Prajesh Bhuta, MBBS, FRCS, Muhammed Ashraf Memon, FRCS

Abstract

This report presents a unique case of a gastric trichobezoar in a relatively healthy, young female with no history of psychological or psychiatric disorders. Furthermore, unlike previously reported cases, this patient had no history of gastric surgery. The mode of presentation and the difficulties in diagnosis are discussed. The different modalities of treatment, both surgical and nonsurgical, are evaluated and discussed. The diagnosis of a trichobezoar in a healthy patient requires a high index of suspicion, as it can present with nonspecific symptomatology. It should be included in the differential diagnosis of nonspecific abdominal pain.


Key Points


* Gastric trichobezoar are usually found in patients with a history of psychological/psychiatric disorders.


* A large proportion of these gastric trichobezoars are found in patients with previous gastric surgery.


* Clinical manifestations vary from no symptoms to acute abdominal syndrome.


* Treatment can be conservative, medical, or surgical.


* Recurrence is possible because of the patient's characteristics or abnormal gastric anatomy.

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