The mind-body connection: An integrated approach to the diagnosis of colonic trichobezoar

Abstract

The relationship between trichophagia, the compulsive eating of hair, and trichobezoar, the accumulation of hair within the gastrointestinal tract, illustrates the importance of the mind-body connection. Physicians ought to be cognizant of this association in the evaluation of colonic obstruction as colonic trichobezoars, though uncommon, carry a high mortality rate. Incorporation of the psychiatric and dermatological examinations is a simple way to raise clinical suspicion for the presence of a trichobezoar, and to prompt early and appropriate surgical treatment. Even after resolution, treatment of the underlying trichophagia is highly recommended to prevent future complications. © 2011, Baywood Publishing Co., Inc.