The Pediatric Surgery team at Bai Jerbai Wadia Hospital for Children in Parel has successfully removed a massive hairball from the stomach of a 10-year-old girl suffering from Rapunzel syndrome, a rare and potentially life-threatening disorder.
The hospital in a press statement on Tuesday informed that the girl, a resident of Vasai, had been experiencing severe abdominal pain, discomfort, and vomiting for over two weeks before being accurately diagnosed and treated.
The young patient was brought to Wadia Hospital after visiting several doctors without a definitive diagnosis. Upon arrival, she presented with acute abdominal pain, severe malnourishment, constipation, and a firm mass in her stomach. An ultrasound revealed a 50 cm-long hairball lodged in her stomach, leading to the diagnosis of trichophagia—a compulsive hair-eating disorder linked to trichotillomania, where individuals feel the urge to pull out their hair.
Rapunzel syndrome, named after the fairy-tale character with long hair, is a rare condition where a large hairball (trichobezoar) forms in the stomach and extends into the small intestine, often seen in young women with underlying psychiatric disorders. In this case, the girl’s condition had advanced, causing significant discomfort and health complications.
The surgical team performed a gastrotomy to remove the hairball, bringing immediate relief to the child. Alongside the surgery, psychological assessment and counselling were provided to address the underlying compulsive behaviour. The child’s recovery has been positive, and she is now free from the symptoms that plagued her for weeks.
The girl’s mother expressed profound gratitude to the Wadia Hospital team. "I was shocked to learn about my child’s condition, but the doctors at Wadia Hospital quickly turned our fears into hope. Their expertise not only saved my daughter but also provided us with the emotional support we desperately needed. I am relieved that she has recovered well and is excited to return to school," she said.
Dr. Minnie Bodhanwala, CEO of Wadia Hospitals, emphasized the importance of a holistic approach in treating such complex pediatric cases. "This case highlights the need for precision and compassion in pediatric healthcare. Our team at Wadia Hospital not only addressed the physical aspects of the disorder but also provided comprehensive psychological support, setting a new standard for effective pediatric care," she concluded.
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