The Rapunzel Syndrome: Is It an Asian Problem? (Case Report and Review of Literature)
July 2009
in “
European Journal of Gastroenterology & Hepatology
”
Studysummary This report describes the second documented case in England of a 14-year-old Asian girl with Rapunzel syndrome, underlining the importance of suspicion to prevent delayed diagnosis in similar patients.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
The document discussed the Rapunzel syndrome, a rare condition involving gastric trichobezoars that extend into the small bowel, potentially causing complications like obstruction, perforation, or peritonitis. The majority of cases were reported in Asian countries. The report detailed the second known case in England, involving a 14-year-old Asian girl who presented with small bowel obstruction. Her condition was previously overlooked when she exhibited symptoms such as slim stature, iron-deficiency anemia, and frontal alopecia. The study emphasized the importance of maintaining a high index of suspicion, especially in Asian girls, to ensure timely diagnosis and intervention.
