A member asked:

I'v compulsive hair eating since years. i chew it into small pieces before ingestion. just curious what procedure will b used to detect their presence?

6 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
Dr. Pamela Pappas answered

Specializes in Psychiatry

Trichophagia: In extreme cases, trichophagia (eating hair) can result in a solid, indigestible mass in the GI system called a bezoar, or trichobezoar. An upper GI study could detect this, or upper GI endoscopy. Depending on what else has been consumed, it might even be seen on an abdominal xray.

Answered 6/10/2014

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Dr. Bahman Omrani answered

Specializes in Pain Management

Trichobezoar: Is a trapped mass in the gastrointestinal tract, usually stomach, formed from ingestion of hair (tricophagia). It is rare and most commonly associated with trichotillomania (compulsive hair pulling). Endoscopy or UGI study are usually sufficient for detection and should be performed in presence of signs / symptoms of "rapunzel" syndrome.

Answered 6/10/2014

4.9k views

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Related Questions

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How does obsessive compulsive disorder of pulling hair work?

A doctor has provided 1 answer