Rapunzel syndrome

Rapunzel Syndrome (also known as Trichobezoar) is an extremely rare intestinal condition in humans resulting from the consumption of hair. 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.