An 8-year-old girl was successfully treated for trichobezoar, a rare condition linked to trichophagia, where hair is compulsively eaten. The girl’s condition began with poor appetite and frequent vomiting over two years. Despite multiple doctor visits, her symptoms persisted until she was admitted to Aster Whitefield Hospital.
The diagnosis revealed a large mass of hair stuck in her gastrointestinal tract. Open surgery was performed to remove the hairball, as it was too large for endoscopic removal. The operation lasted two and a half hours, and the girl was hospitalized for a week for recovery.
The condition could have led to severe complications such as malnutrition, anemia, and bleeding if left untreated. Post-surgery, the girl was put on a high-protein diet and partial parenteral nutrition. Psychological support was also provided to manage her trichophagia. The family was counseled extensively to understand the condition and its treatment.
The girl’s recovery is expected to be positive with ongoing psychological support and regular monitoring. Parents are being educated on recognizing signs of trichophagia and the importance of early intervention.
