Rapunzel syndrome

Rapunzel Syndrome (also known as Trichobezoar) is an extremely rare intestinal condition. It is named after the beautiful long-haired character Rapunzel in the fairy tale by the Brothers Grimm.

Its characteristics include:


 * The body of a trichobezoar (hairball) located in the stomach, and its tail in the small bowel and/or in the right colon
 * Small or large bowel obstruction
 * Occurring in psychiatric patients
 * Trichotillomania

At least fourteen cases have been reported in the pediatric age group.

Treatment
As the human gastrointestinal tract is unable to digest human hairs, the trichobezoar usually has to be treated surgically.