Oesophageal obstruction due to trichobezoars in two cats

Abstract

Case series summaryThis case series describes two cats diagnosed with oesophageal obstruction due to trichobezoars. Both cases presented for acute dyspnoea, with thoracic radiographs revealing changes consistent with oesophageal foreign material causing ventral displacement of the trachea. Endoscopic removal was unsuccessful and both cases required surgical intervention. Case 1 died within 24 h of trichobezoar removal, likely from aspiration pneumonia. Case 2 developed laryngeal collapse 10 days after trichobezoar removal and required a permanent tracheostomy. Case 2 has been followed up for >1 year without any further complications.Relevance and novel informationThere is minimal published information on oesophageal trichobezoars in cats. These cases provide information on presentation, radiographic findings and complications associated with oesophageal trichobezoars. The intention of this case series is to increase the index of suspicion for this syndrome among clinicians treating feline patients.

Histopathologic diagnosis and patient characteristics in cats with small intestinal obstructions secondary to trichobezoars

“…Owing to the paucity of published literature regarding trichobezoar obstructions, the clinical utility of obtaining gastrointestinal biopsies at the time of surgery for relief of trichobezoar obstructions is unknown. 2,3 The underlying pathology may result in abnormal intestinal structure and motility, potentially predisposing to trichobezoar obstruction. Many gastrointestinal diseases in cats, including inflammatory bowel disease, diffuse alimentary lymphoma and food-responsive enteropathy, are generally categorized as feline chronic enteropathies (FCE).…”

“…Some sources consider this a normal physiologic process, though frequent elimination has been cited as evidence of pathologic overgrooming or underlying gastrointestinal pathology. 2 , 3 This lack of consensus regarding normalcy of trichobezoar formation and elimination further contributes to the uncertainty regarding the cause of trichobezoar obstruction. While many veterinarians tend to accept the formation of an obstructive trichobezoar as an unusual, yet inescapable, nuisance (reminiscent of other types of foreign body obstructions), others feel these obstructions are often secondary to gastrointestinal pathology.…”

“…Owing to the paucity of published literature regarding trichobezoar obstructions, the clinical utility of obtaining gastrointestinal biopsies at the time of surgery for relief of trichobezoar obstructions is unknown. 2 , 3 …”