SAR Journal of Surgery
Volume-7 | Issue-02
Case Report
When Appetite Meets Anxiety- A Tale of Trichobezoar
Gandeti Kiran Kumar, Aithagani Aruna, Nuukala Geethika, Nutulapati Sree Sravya, Kondeti Pavani
Published : April 8, 2026
Abstract
Background: Trichobezoar is a rare condition resulting from the accumulation of ingested hair within the gastrointestinal tract, most commonly seen in young females with underlying psychiatric disorders. It may lead to serious complications including gastric outlet obstruction and perforation. Case Presentation: A 19‑year‑old female presented with 10 days of intermittent upper abdominal pain with recent worsening, associated with postprandial vomiting and significant weight loss over the preceding months. Examination revealed mild epigastric tenderness, and blood investigations demonstrated microcytic hypochromic anemia. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy showed an entangled hair mass occupying the body and fundus of the stomach, which could not be retrieved endoscopically. She underwent laparotomy and anterior gastrotomy with removal of an 8 × 5 × 3 cm trichobezoar mixed with digested food particles. Postoperatively she had psychiatric evaluation, was counseled for trichotillomania, advised behavioral therapy, and discharged with iron supplementation, nutritional advice, and scheduled follow‑up. Conclusion: Trichobezoar should be considered in young females presenting with unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms, weight loss, and nutritional anemia. A multidisciplinary approach involving surgical, psychiatric, and nutritional care is vital to ensure complete recovery and prevent recurrence.