Trichobezoar and phytobezoar

Trichobezoar and phytobezoar

Trichobezoar (hair balls) ( Figure 67.34 ) are unusual and are virtually exclusively found in young psychiatric patients. It is caused by the ingestion of hair, which remains undigested in the stomach. The hair ball can lead to ulceration and gastro intestinal bleeding, perforation or obstruction. The diagnosis is made easily at endoscopy . Treatment consists of removal of the bezoar, which may requir e open surgical treatment. Phytobezoars are made of vegetable matter and are found principally in patients who have gastric stasis, usually following gastric surgery . - - y - -

Figure 67.34 Trichobezoar of the stomach in a girl aged 15 years.