THE RAPUNZEL-SYNDROME (TRICHOHEZOAR) CAUSING GASTRIC PERFORATION IN ACHILD - A CASE-REPORT

The Rapunzel syndrome (RS), is a rare form of gastric trichobezoar ext ending throughout the bowel. We report on a patient with RS causing ga stric perforation and discuss the aetiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis a nd treatment of this unusual syndrome. RS is found characteristically in girls with varying gastro-intestinal symptoms. The recommended trea tment for large or complicated trichobezoars is surgery. Psychiatric f ollow up is essential to diminish the frequency of reccurrence. Conclu sion Symptoms of trichobezoars are nonspecific and may mimic those of other pathological gastro-intestinal conditions. Early diagnosis and t reatment of this condition is of prime importance and may avoid later fatal complications.