Lucknow/Bareilly: In a startling medical case, doctors in Bareilly successfully removed 2 kilograms of human hair from the stomach of a 21-year-old woman who had been ingesting her own hair for the past 16 years. The woman, a resident of Kargaina, was found to be suffering from trichophagia, a psychological disorder characterized by the compulsive eating of hair, a condition often linked with trichotillomania, where individuals compulsively pull out their own hair.
Diagnosis and Treatment
The condition, clinically identified as Rapunzel Syndrome—a severe form of trichobezoar—was diagnosed on September 20 following a CT scan that revealed a significant accumulation of hair in her gastrointestinal tract. Dr. MP Singh, a surgeon at the district hospital in Bareilly, explained that the extensive hair mass had occupied her stomach cavity and parts of her intestine, severely restricting her ability to consume solid foods and causing vomiting when ingesting liquids.
“Trichophagia is a chronic psychiatric disorder often associated with trichotillomania,” Dr. Singh told PTI. “In this case, the patient had been ingesting her hair since the age of five, which eventually led to the formation of a large trichobezoar requiring surgical intervention.”
Surgical Intervention and Recovery
On September 26, a successful operation was performed to extract the massive hairball from her stomach and intestines. Dr. Singh emphasized the rarity of such extensive cases, noting that similar complex surgeries had not been reported in the past two decades. Post-surgery, the woman received counseling and psychological support to address her underlying mental health issues.
“Rapunzel Syndrome is an unusual and severe form of trichobezoar,” Dr. Singh added. “It not only poses significant health risks, such as abdominal pain, nausea, and weight loss, but also requires immediate medical attention to prevent life-threatening complications.”
Psychological Implications and Treatment
The exact causes of trichophagia remain unclear, though theories suggest a combination of genetic predisposition, social environment, and neurobiological factors. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is considered the most effective treatment for trichotillomania and related disorders, helping patients develop healthier coping mechanisms and reduce compulsive behaviors.
Dr. Alka Sharma, the hospital in-charge, highlighted the uniqueness of the case. “Such extensive cases of trichobezoar requiring complex surgery are exceedingly rare. The family reported that the woman’s habit of hair pulling escalated over time, leading to severe abdominal pain that necessitated the CT scan and subsequent surgery.”
Community and Medical Response
The medical team continues to provide comprehensive care and psychological support to the patient, aiming to prevent relapse and improve her quality of life. This case underscores the critical need for early intervention and mental health support for individuals struggling with compulsive disorders.
The community has shown support for the young woman, recognizing the challenges she faced and the bravery she exhibited in seeking help after many years of suffering.
