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Revista del Nacional (Itauguá)
Print version ISSN 2072-8174
Abstract
CORONEL, Cristhian; MARTINEZ ARGUELLO, Deivis; CACERES, Roberto and VERA, Anahí. Gastric retention syndrome due to tricobezoar. Rev. Nac. (Itauguá) [online]. 2013, vol.5, n.1, pp.53-56. ISSN 2072-8174.
ABSTRACT Bezoars are solid masses made up of fibers, hairs or food debris that usually remain in the stomach. Trichobezoars, which are formed by hairs, are more common in female patients with a history of childhood trichotillomania and trichophagia. For diagnosis, imaging techniques like plain abdominal radiography, barium contrast abdominal radiography and upper gastrointestinal endoscopy are used that allow direct visualization. Treatment for trichobezoar is surgical, consisting of anterior gastrostomy in addition to psychiatric support. Our case corresponds to a 16-year old patient with a history of trichophagia, that consulted for abdominal pain, vomiting and abdominal distension. Laboratory, imaging and endoscopic studies were conducted leading to the diagnosis of higher intestinal mechanical obstruction. Surgery was indicated confirming the trichobezoar that was removed by anterior gastrostomy. Evolution was favorable, whereby the patient egressed five days after surgery, with recommendations to attend outpatient general surgery and psychology.