A Rare Case of Trichobezoar Revealing Undiagnosed Celiac Disease

Cureus. 2024 Feb 9;16(2):e53919. doi: 10.7759/cureus.53919. eCollection 2024 Feb.

Abstract

Trichobezoar is a relatively rare condition in children, mainly observed in young girls with psychiatric disorders. While documented cases of trichobezoar associated with celiac disease exist, such occurrences remain uncommon in the literature. The association between the two can be explained either by behavioral disorders resulting from a deficiency in iron and folic acid or directly by celiac disease. Treatment is predominantly surgical, and psychological support plays a crucial role in preventing the likelihood of recurrence. We present an unusual case involving the discovery of gastric trichobezoar in a 15-year-old girl who had undiagnosed celiac disease. The condition manifested after she experienced abdominal pain and pallor.

Keywords: adolescent; celiac disease; surgery; trichobezoar; trichophagia.

Publication types

  • Case Reports