# Case Report on Rapunzel syndrome: a large gastric trichobezoar extending to the proximal jejunum in a young adult female

## TL;DR

This case report describes a rare medical condition called Rapunzel syndrome in a young woman, where a large hair mass formed in her stomach and extended into her intestine.

## Contribution

The novelty lies in presenting a rare case of Rapunzel syndrome in a patient who denied hair-pulling and hair-eating behaviors.

## Key findings

- Rapunzel syndrome can present in patients without a known history of trichotillomania or trichophagia.
- Preoperative radiological evaluation is crucial for planning effective treatment.
- Surgical removal via laparotomy and gastrotomy led to successful recovery in this case.

## Abstract

A trichobezoar is an intraluminal mass of hair growing continuously with additional ingestion, while Rapunzel syndrome refers to a giant gastric trichobezoar that extends from the stomach into the small intestine. We present a case of Rapunzel syndrome as an uncommon cause of upper gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms in a young adult woman who denied trichotillomania and trichophagia. Preoperative radiological assessment was pivotal in planning a preferable therapeutic approach. The patient underwent laparotomy and prepyloric gastrotomy, resulting in satisfactory postoperative outcomes. Trichobezoars are extremely rare and predominantly affect young women with underlying psychiatric conditions. Although uncommon, they cause severe upper gastrointestinal symptoms and may even lead to various complications. This case report helps in understanding the presentation of gastric trichobezoar and Rapunzel syndrome, including their range of symptoms, radiological appearance, and associated findings, to make an accurate diagnosis and guide an appropriate treatment approach.