Rapunzel Syndrome: What It Is And Why It Happens?

 

Rapunzel syndrome is a very rare condition that occurs when a long, thin strand of hair grows from inside the stomach or intestines and out through the rectum. The hair strand can range in length from several inches to over a foot. This condition is also known as trichophagia (hair-eating disorder), Rapunzel syndrome, or intestinal hair bezoar.

This condition is considered a medical emergency because the long hair strand can cause blockages in the intestine. If left untreated, these blockages can lead to serious health complications, such as perforation of the intestine, infection, and even death.

Rapunzel syndrome is treated by surgically removing the hair strand(s) through a procedure called endoscopic retrieval. In some cases, additional treatment may be necessary to address any underlying psychological conditions.

 

Signs and Symptoms

When it comes to Rapunzel syndrome, there are a few key signs and symptoms to be aware of. First and foremost, Rapunzel syndrome is characterized by the presence of extremely long hair. In some cases, the hair may be so long that it reaches all the way down to the ground. Additionally, those with Rapunzel syndrome may also have trouble urinating or defecating due to the fact that their hair can get in the way. Finally, another common symptom of Rapunzel syndrome is malnutrition. This is often due to the fact that those with Rapunzel syndrome may not be able to eat properly because their hair gets in the way.

 

Causes of Rapunzel Syndrome

The cause of Rapunzel syndrome is unknown, but it may be related to an underlying psychological condition such as trichotillomania (a compulsion to pull out one’s own hair). It has also been associated with certain eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa.

There are many potential causes of Rapunzel syndrome, though the exact cause is often unknown. Potential causes include:

 

Genetic Factors:

Rapunzel syndrome may be caused by mutations in certain genes, including the PTEN gene.

 

Environmental Factors:

Exposure to certain environmental toxins, such as lead, may play a role in the development of Rapunzel syndrome.

 

Medical Conditions:

Some medical conditions, such as diabetes and obesity, have been linked to an increased risk of developing Rapunzel syndrome.

 

Treatment for Rapunzel Syndrome

There is no known cure for Rapunzel syndrome, but treatment options are available to manage the condition. Treatment typically involves a combination of surgery and medical therapy.

Surgery is the mainstay of treatment for Rapunzel syndrome. The goal of surgery is to remove the tangled mass of hair from the stomach and intestines. This can be a very complex surgery, and sometimes multiple surgeries may be needed. Medical therapy is used to help control symptoms and minimize the risk of complications from the condition.