Perforated Gastric Ulcer due to a Giant Trichobezoar: A Case Report and Literature Review

ABSTRACT The term “trichobezoar” refers to foreign and indigestible material in the gastrointestinal tract, and it can indicate several underlying mental illnesses. A 38‐year‐old woman reported experiencing sudden intensive abdominal pain, along with a two‐month history of vomiting, nausea, exhaustion, and abdominal discomfort. The diagnosis of gastrointestinal perforation was validated by investigations. During an emergency laparotomy, a perforated stomach ulcer with enormous trichobezoar occupying the entire gastric lumen was revealed. The giant trichobezoar was removed, along with the appendix. The pathology report revealed serositis, fibrosis, and active chronic Helicobacter pylori gastritis. Trichobezoar exhibits variation in locations and volumes. These frequently starts with minimal symptoms but over time can produce nausea, vomiting, peritonitis, hematemesis, abdominal pain, or even perforation, especially in patients who are at risk of developing ulcers and have a large trichobezoar.