CT APPEARANCES OF THE RAPUNZEL-SYNDROME - AN UNUSUAL FORM OF BEZOAR AND GASTROINTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION

The CT appearances of an unusual type of trichobezoar which causes the Rapunzel syndrome are described. This syndrome is characterized by in testinal obstruction secondary to a bezoar possessing a tail which ext ends to or beyond the ileocecal valve. Most cases of bezoar are diagno sed with plain films or barium meal, but CT may be requested in patien ts who present with abdominal masses. The Rapunzel syndrome may be dia gnosed with a combination of the CT findings and the history.